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Rock Hits Get a Classical Upgrade at This Upcoming One-Night-Only Orchestra Concert

Think, My Chemical Romance or Coldplay, but make it symphonic.
Leana Vibal

by Leana Vibal

Published on Sep 3, 2025

Photo courtesy of Manila Philharmonic Orchestra.
(SPOT.ph) Dust off your band tees, and get ready to rock out on a night—at the orchestra. No, that's not a typo. A first-of-its-kind symphonic rock concert is happening this November, and if you've got a love for the ebb and flow of classical music and the beats of rock, then this is the show for you. 

The Manila Philharmonic Orchestra (MPO) is holding its annual anniversary concert, and this year it's mixing rock and classical all in one show—and we've got all the deets. 

Here's what you need to know about Manila Philharmonic Orchestra's MPO Rocks:

Following the success of their 25th anniversary concert, The Manila Philharmonic Orchestra (MPO) is back in the spotlight with MPO ROCKS!, a first-of-its-kind symphonic rock concert happening on November 29 at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater.
MPO Rocks Poster
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Attend the MPO Rocks concert to experience classic rock songs in a new light. Photo courtesy of Manila Philharmonic Orchestra..
Get ready to headbang to your favorite hits from bands like Queen, Coldplay, My Chemical Romance, the Eraserheads, and more as the MPO transforms rock anthems into full-blown symphonic spectacles.

Joining them onstage are powerhouse voices like Bituin Escalante, Queen tribute frontman Mig Ayesa, the world-renowned Philippine Madrigal Singers, and special guest artists—pushing the boundaries of what happens when rock collides with orchestra.
Manila Philharmonic Orchestra
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Imagine your favorite rock hits performed with a classical arrangement. Photo courtesy of the Manila Philharmonic Orchestra..
Leading the orchestra on this night of rock-meets-classical is none other than MPO founder Maestro Rodel Colmenar, who admits this genre crossover event was something he had dreamt of since his high school years. 
Rodel Colmenar
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MPO's founder, Rodel Colmenar is conducting for the show. Photo courtesy of the Manila Philharmonic Orchestra..
"During my time with the orchestra, I often wondered how rock music would sound when combined with orchestral arrangements," says Colmenar. "I want the audience to experience a different side of the symphony orchestra," he adds.

Aside from celebrating the classical ensemble's 26th year, the event also serves as a fundraiser for the Performing Arts and Recreation Center (PARC) Foundation's Aralan Program, which supports underprivileged scholars in honing their musical talents.

Where to get tickets to Manila Philharmonic Orchestra's MPO Rocks:

You can get tickets to MPO Rocks! online via Ticketworld or onsite in their outlets nationwide. Ticket prices start at P2,500 and can go as high as P7,000.

Here are the ticket prices for MPO Rocks:

  • Orchestra Center: P7,000
  • Orchestra Left/ Right: P6,200
  • Loge Center: P6,000
  • Loge Left/ Right: P5,000
  • Lower Balcony: P3,200
  • Upper Balcony: P2,500
    • MPO Rocks Seating Chart
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    Photo courtesy of Manila Philharmonic Orchestra.
    For more information, visit the Manila Philharmonic Orchestra's Facebook page.

    Also read: 
    Your Ultimate Guide To Theater Shows in the Philippines in 2025
    Your Ultimate Guide to Concerts in the Philippines 2025
    Leana Vibal

    Leana is Spot's go-to for Arts & Culture and Things to Do. On any given day, she’s either glued to her screen—or gliding underwater like the mermaid she swears she is. Contact: leana@spot.ph

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