KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 7 — The Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra (MPO) is set to breathe new life into the music of the late Alfonso Soliano with A Tribute to Alfonso Soliano, a concert celebrating the acclaimed composer’s enduring legacy while introducing his timeless works to a new generation of audiences.
Scheduled for Sept 2, 8 pm at Dewan Filharmonik Petronas, the concert will feature a selection of Alfonso Soliano’s works, including several medleys jointly selected by the MPO and the Soliano family.
Conductor Ahmad Muriz Che Rose described Soliano as a pioneering figure whose influence continues to shape Malaysian symphonic music today.
“Much of what we hear in Malaysian symphonic music today has its roots in the foundation laid by Alfonso,” he said during a recent media session.
“He played a pivotal role in bringing musicians together to create music of world-class standard, and that legacy continues to shape our symphonic tradition.”
Muriz said the programme strikes a balance between faithful renditions of Soliano’s original compositions and fresh orchestral interpretations, offering audiences a renewed appreciation of his music.
“There are pieces that we have kept true to their original form, while others have been reimagined to better suit an orchestral setting.
“We have jazzed up some works, arranged others as symphonic pieces, and while some numbers will be performed with vocals, others will be presented as instrumentals,” he said.
Among the highlights are Dawn to Darkness, Tunas Kasih and selected works from the Tiga Trombone album.
For Soliano’s daughter, Isabella, the concert offers a meaningful opportunity to introduce her father’s music to a wider audience.
“Now it’s time… we want to share the music of Alfonso Soliano through MPO. This is a collaboration we’ve been waiting for,” she said.
Hailed as the Father of Modern Malay Music, the late Alfonso Soliano was a distinguished composer, conductor, arranger and music educator whose pioneering contributions helped shape Malaysia’s orchestral tradition and Malay music landscape.
Joining the MPO for the concert will be The Solianos, featuring Isabella Soliano (vocals), Don Alfonso Soliano (bass), Condrado Soliano (flugelhorn/trumpet), Tristano Soliano (piano/vocals), Eddie Kismulardy (alto saxophone) and Arthur Kam (drums), presenting timeless compositions including Ku Kan Kembali, Airmata Berderai, Rindulah Rindu, Ku Puja Alam, Kasih Sayang, Blues for Bangkok, East to West and Pacita Blues.
Tickets are priced from RM249 to RM399, while Suite seats are available at RM449 and RM499 per seat, inclusive of light refreshments. — Bernama
