OFY treats guests to classics, ‘surprise’ pieces in anniversary showSince Ang Misyon began in 2012, the vision to reach excellence in music for a better Philippines has remained clear.

To showcase how its scholars have grown in its music programs, the Orchestra of the Filipino Youth (OFY)—Ang Misyon’s main performing arm—played classical pieces, from Richard Wagner’s “Rienzi” Overture, Gustav Mahler’s Symphony No.1 “Titan”:IV.Stürmisch bewegt, to original Pilipino music including Ryan Cayabyab’s “Kay Ganda ng Ating Musika,” Constancio de Guzman’s “Maalaala Mo Kaya” and “Songs for the Youth,” a medley of timeless local compositions arranged by Ria Villena-Osorio.

“In Ang Misyon, our scholars hold the key to unlocking the full potential of this movement, and the tangible results we’ve    seen so far only inspires us to do more,” Ang Misyon president Federico R. Lopez said as he welcomed the audience to the anniversary concert held at Areté in Ateneo de Manila University on October 27.

Conducted by OFY music director Joshua Dos Santos, surprise pieces energized the crowd as he engaged them during the show, which closed with a standing ovation.

The concert had an attendance of nearly 600, with audiences from music groups such as the University of the Philippines Symphonic Band, Far Eastern University’s Bamboo Wand, Drum and Bugle Corps, and faculty and students of St. Scholastica’s College and Philippine Women’s University. Fellow members of the music and arts community including Marlon Chen of Manila Symphony Orchestra and Noel Martin of Valenzuela Youth Orchestra showed their support as well.

The "OFY at 7" concert was made possible by the Washington Sycip Family Foundation, Rockwell Land Corporation and BDO. First Philippine Holdings Corporation, First Gen Corporation and ABSCBN were also acknowledged for their support for Ang Misyon through the years. (Story/Photos by: Jennifer Rivera)