The Manila Symphony Orchestra Music Academy officially launched its newest branch at One Ayala with an inspiring blessing and ribbon-cutting ceremony. Key community figures led the opening, including Fr. Benny Tuazon, MSO Foundation President Maan Hontiveros, Standard Insurance representative Marife Pineda, and One Ayala General Manager Khen Akot. Surrounded by faculty, students, and supporters, the event honored a shared mission to deliver world-class music education to learners of all ages.
The celebration featured a vibrant mini-recital showcasing collaborative performances from students and faculty across classical and modern repertoires. Highlights included classical works by Paganini, Giordani, and Vivaldi, alongside rich local arrangements such as Willy Cruz’s “Sana’y Wala Nang Wakas.” The musical showcase came to a memorable close with an ensemble rendition of Laufey’s contemporary hit, “From the Start.”
Complementing the existing Circuit Makati branch, this premier venue offers six private teaching rooms alongside a spacious hall built for workshops, masterclasses, and recitals. Each room features an acoustic piano suited for versatile training across strings, brass, woodwinds, voice, and harp. The specialized facility establishes an accessible space for foundational practice, competitive prep, and scholarship programs alike.
The studio was made possible through the generous backing of Standard Insurance, Mr. Ernesto Echauz, and Christopher Varlez of Varlez Pianos. Key leadership support from Mariana Zobel Aboitiz and MSO Trustee John Silva further helped secure One Ayala as the Academy’s newest home. Alongside student training, the institution will also continue empowering instructors through international professional pathways like Suzuki teacher certifications.
Now fully open, the One Ayala branch stands ready to welcome aspiring musicians into an encouraging and artistic environment. The academy looks forward to filling its state-of-the-art studios with fresh talent, lasting camaraderie, and creative breakthroughs. Through this new location, the MSO family continues to broaden its reach and deepen the joy of music in the community.
