The Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra (PPO) continues to elevate its 41st concert season with CONCERT V: PRELUDI on January 16, 2026, at 7:30 p.m., at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater in Makati City. Under the baton of the esteemed Maestro Grzegorz Nowak, this extraordinary performance will bring together timeless works by Jeffrey Ching, Frédéric Chopin, and Franz Liszt, showcasing the artistic brilliance that defines the PPO’s legacy.
The concert features Spanish-Filipino soprano Andion Fernandez and the acclaimed piano prodigy Szymon Nehring, adding their extraordinary talents to an unforgettable evening of music.
A Prelude to New Beginnings
The fifth concert of the PPO’s season opens with Ching’s Fenghuang Singing, a piece that combines Eastern and Western influences to tell the story of the phoenix’s rebirth, symbolizing the rebuilding of two cities, Magdeburg and Braunschweig, after World War II. The performance of this evocative work is enriched by the captivating voice of Andion Fernandez, a soprano known for her powerful and emotive performances. With a rich history in European opera, Fernandez’s partnership with Ching brings a soulful interpretation of this magnificent piece, originally composed to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall.
A Nostalgic Journey into the Heart of Music
The night continues with Chopin’s Piano Concerto No. 1 in E minor, Op. 11, a masterpiece filled with passionate longing and youthful energy. Composed before Chopin turned 20, this concerto marks the composer’s transition from youth to maturity, offering a glimpse into the emotional depth of his early works. With Szymon Nehring, a rising star in the classical world, performing as the guest pianist, Chopin’s concerto will be brought to life with exceptional artistry.
The concert reaches its emotional climax with Liszt’s Les Préludes, a symphonic poem that captures the complexities of life, love, and human struggle. Inspired by the poet Alphonse de Lamartine, Liszt’s composition unfolds in five sections, transitioning from a hauntingly mysterious introduction to an exhilarating march, echoing the themes of life’s unpredictable and passionate journey. The PPO’s stunning rendition of this iconic piece will be paired with Nehring’s piano skills, creating a dynamic finish to the evening.
A Musical Manifestation of Culture and Community
Concert V: Preludi goes beyond just musical performance—it’s a celebration of cultural expression, personal triumphs, and community. The PPO continues its mission to bring classical music closer to Filipinos, fostering an appreciation for the arts while embracing new beginnings and shared experiences.
Tickets for PPO Concert V: Preludi are now available at TicketWorld, with prices ranging from Php1,500 to Php3,000. Subscribers can enjoy an exclusive 20% discount. To subscribe to the PPO’s 41st concert season, contact the CCP Box Office at +63931-033-0880 or email salesandpromotions@culturalcenter.gov.ph.
For more updates on upcoming performances and future events, visit the Cultural Center of the Philippines website at www.culturalcenter.gov.ph or follow the CCP and PPO’s official social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.
Don’t miss this opportunity to witness a breathtaking evening of classical masterpieces and a celebration of artistic brilliance.
