REVIEW: Manila Philharmonic Orchestra's 'Lights, Camera, Encore' makes beloved music from stage and screen all the more captivating
In just a few weeks, Spotify will release its Wrapped feature, showcasing users’ listening history throughout the year. Between my usual rotation, an outlier usually stands out amidst the otherwise cohesive genres I gravitate towards: orchestral music. Whether it’s classical pieces or remakes of songs from popular culture, there’s something so magical about listening to an orchestra when studying, or working, or simply wanting to feel like you’re part of something bigger. When I used to study piano, my dreams weren’t limited to sold-out solo concerts; instead, I liked the idea of playing together with a group, filling rooms with harmonies and melodies that would leave an impact on audiences wherever we may be.
This is the draw of groups like the Manila Philharmonic Orchestra—and part of the reason why audiences keep coming back for more. Thus, in celebration of its 25th anniversary, the Manila Philharmonic Orchestra presented “Lights, Camera, Encore,” a concert showcasing the orchestra’s range, repertoire, and undeniable talent. With Maestro Rodel Colmenar at the helm and an orchestra of 90 members, the show promised to highlight the best of the orchestra over its long, rich 25-year history.
Stage and screen
The one-night-only sold-out concert was divided into “Stage” and “Screen,” representing where the songs played originated from. From timeless musical numbers to instantly recognizable film classics, the orchestra delivered memorable performances that delighted the audience all throughout the evening. As someone who was familiar with many of the songs that they had chosen for the concert (and for the musical numbers, seen live in theatres), it was incredible to listen to how they remained faithful to the originals but nonetheless captivating. It’s one thing to listen to grand pieces on Spotify, and another thing entirely to watch them unfold right in front of you; even without visuals, the music evoked strong feelings in the audience that were simply unforgettable.
“Lights, Camera, Encore” also featured a number of guest singers—friends of the orchestra who had performed with them during prior shows. Lara Maigue’s clear and dulcet voice made her the perfect fit during the theme from Titanic, seemingly carrying us over ocean waves. Arman Ferrer was also one to watch, delivering incredibly strong performances of “Speak Softly, Love” from The Godfather and Hamilton’s King George’s “You’ll Be Back.”
And there’s no powerhouse quite like Bituin Escalante, who, from the moment she first stepped onstage to sing Funny Girl’s “Don’t Rain on My Parade” to her showstopping “I Will Always Love You,” made it impossible for anyone to look away. The UST Singers and the Philippine Madrigal Singers were also integral to the grandness of so many of the numbers.
One of our favorites from the night, the theme song from Game of Thrones, was made even more majestic by the chorale’s collective voices. The combination of “Mamma Mia,” “Dancing Queen,” “Chiquitita” and “Thank You for the Music,” the last number of their “Stage” portion, was a great way to round up the first act of the show.
'A well-oiled machine'
Guest artists aside, however, the orchestra’s musicians were truly the stars of the night. The Manila Philharmonic Orchestra plays together like a well-oiled machine; from the high, melodious tones of the woodwinds to the steady and reliable cellos and contrabasses, you’d want to listen to every song over and over again if only to peel back layer after satisfying layer and appreciate a new section after each listen.
One number that stood out in particular was “Cinema Paradiso,” with violinist and Associate Concertmaster Shiho Takashima taking center stage. Takashima’s emotive playing never overshadowed nor was overpowered by the rest of the group as they carried out this hauntingly beautiful number. Another standout number was the Studio Ghibli medley arranged by keyboardist Naldy Rodriguez, who took these familiar pieces and made out something new but comforting all the same.
Even with a few technical issues during the show, Maestro Rodel knew how to keep it going, filling the gaps in between songs with anecdotes about the company’s illustrious 25-year journey, and his advocacy to bring classical music training to those who may not otherwise have access to it. “25 years ago, we started MPO because we wanted to bring the symphony closer to Filipino audiences.” the conductor said. “All this is a testament of how your support for the arts can uplift Philippine talent to world-class artists, appreciated by all generations.”
The proceeds raised from the anniversary concert would go to the PARC Foundation, dedicated to bringing music to underprivileged youth. One of the most touching moments of the show, in fact, was the conductor getting emotional as he introduced one of the cellists, Dulcissimo “Dodong” Terrado, who was actually a product of the orchestra’s outreach programs in Tondo. The joy Maestro had when speaking of the ways music can touch the lives of people across sectors and borders is part and parcel of what makes the Manila Philharmonic Orchestra so great: a sincerity behind each and every song that uplifts and inspires all generations.
Everyone loves music, sure—but the Manila Philharmonic Orchestra’s love for it has spanned over two and a half decades now, taking them to impressive heights (just earlier this year, they performed with Laufey at the PICC Plenary Hall). And yet, if their concert last Tuesday is any indication, these 25 years are only the beginning of something grander, something great.
For exclusive access to pre-sales for Manila Philharmonic Orchestra’s upcoming concert series, be sure to check out https://bit.ly/LCEPhilstar.
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Disclaimer: PhilSTAR L!fe is an official media partner of Manila Philharmonic Orchestra's "Lights, Camera, and Encore" concert.
