Kuala lumpur: Dewan Filharmonik PETRONAS (DFP) and the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra (MPO) are set to embark on their 28th concert season in 2026, showcasing a varied programme that includes classical, cross-genre, traditional, anime, and film soundtrack music, aiming to engage audiences of all ages.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, a joint statement from DFP and MPO highlighted the theme of the upcoming season, "Where Every Beat Tells A Story," which continues their mission since 1998 to strengthen music appreciation and foster community engagement through world-class performances. Siti Azlina Abd Latif, the CEO of DFP and MPO, emphasized music as a universal language that transcends cultural and generational boundaries, stating that the arts are essential for societal nourishment.
The season's highlights include a classical series under MPO music director Junichi Hirokami, featuring programmes like "A Chorale Spectacular" and "An Evening of Verdi and Jazz." Newcomers such as conductor Aziz Shokhakimov and pianist Yukine Kuroki will make their debut appearances. Additionally, concert-hall film screenings with live orchestral music will continue, featuring titles like "Amadeus" and "Star Wars - A New Hope."
Siti Azlina noted that innovative programming is crucial for audience development and reflects MPO's commitment to expanding its reach. The cross-genre series will see collaborations with international artists, including a concert blending rock and orchestral elements with "The Music of Queen" in October.
Cirque de la Symphonie, combining circus arts and orchestral music, will feature in January, led by Malaysian virtuoso Tengku Irfan. Gerard Salonga, MPO's resident conductor, will present concerts featuring his sister, Broadway star Lea Salonga, and a selection of Studio Ghibli music in July.
Tribute concerts will honor the legacies of local icons Biduanita Negara Datuk Sharifah Aini and Alfonso Soliano, conducted by Ahmad Muriz Che Rose. Local talents Jaclyn Victor and Shila Amzah will also celebrate career milestones with MPO, while Indonesian singer Kunto Aji will collaborate with MPO in November.
DFP will present cultural productions such as "Mak Yong Shakespeare: The Comedy of Errors" and "Yin and Yang: A Dance Kaleidoscope" to preserve and promote local artistic heritage. Additionally, the MPO will continue its educational efforts with the Malaysian Philharmonic Youth Orchestra, offering intensive coaching and a series of concerts at DFP.