PRESS RELEASE
PPO begins ‘Versatile’ season with diverse repertoire in Concert I: Ouverture
The Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra (PPO), the country’s leading musical ensemble, kicks off its 41st season with CONCERT I: OUVERTURE on September 12, 2025, 7:30 p.m., at The Metropolitan Theater in Manila.
Following its success in championing Filipino artistry on the global stage, PPO’s Concert I: Ouverture serves as the orchestra’s momentous comeback from its recently concluded tour across the United Kingdom. Under the baton of its music director and principal conductor, Maestro Grzegorz Nowak, the orchestra returns to showcase its musical flexibility in the first concert of its 41st season.
PPO’s Concert I: Ouverture opens with Czech composer Antonín Dvořák’s Carnival Overture, op. 92. The composition juxtaposes a lonely contemplation with a cheerful backdrop. This Dvořák classic treats the audience as a forlorn traveler heading toward a carnival at night.
Carnival Overture, op. 92 is a part of Dvořák’s trilogy of overtures entitled “Nature, Life, Love”, which beautifully describes his exploration of human life.
Dvořák’s Overture will be followed by an enthralling rendition of Sergei Rachmaninov’s Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini, Op. 43. The Russian virtuoso’s single-movement, concertante work presents a whimsical adventure through its intricate melody. With fast-paced musical leaps, Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini, Op. 43 poses a considerable challenge for most pianists.
Rachmaninov, who suffered from severe performance anxiety, broke his usual no-drinking rule to steady his nerves before playing the Rhapsody.
Capping PPO’s Concert I: Ouverture is Johannes Brahms’ Symphony No. 4, op. 98, in E minor. Exhibiting an intense dialogue between motifs and musical fragments, the German composer strikes a delicate balance of tradition and innovation. Initially, Symphony No. 4, op. 98, in E minor was considered a controversial piece, as it seemed inaccessible due to its cerebral construction.
In Concert I: Ouverture, the PPO is joined by International German Piano Awardee Andrey Gugnin. Possessing an “extraordinarily versatile and agile technique, which serves an often inspired musical imagination,” the international pianist will surely enchant Filipino audiences with his heartwarming interpretations of classical harmonies.
Boasting an impressive repertoire ranging from the refined, sophisticated grace of Baroque and Classical masterpieces to the exciting frontier of Contemporary symphonies, PPO’s Concert I: Ouverture is the perfect entree for the versatile season.
The PPO, through the Cultural Center of the Philippines, continues to champion the masterful talent of Filipinos on the international music scene. Its 41st concert season, Versatile, displays the orchestra’s eternal commitment to demonstrating textured performances spanning multiple genres and cultures.
Witness the PPO create another historical moment with Concert I: Ouverture on September 12, 2025, at 7:30 PM, at The Metropolitan Theater in Manila. Now available at TicketWorld, concert tickets are priced at Php 3,000, Php 2,500, Php 2,000, and Php 1,500. Avail the exclusive 25 percent discount by being a PPO subscriber.
To purchase a PPO’s 41st concert season subscription and for other inquiries, email salesandpromotions@culturalcenter.gov.ph or call the CCP Box Office at +63931-033-0880.
For additional updates on PPO’s future events and performances, follow the CCP and PPO’s official Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok accounts. You may also visit the CCP website at www.culturalcenter.gov.ph for news on future concerts, festivals, masterclasses, workshops, and other events.
