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Rakyat Post
07-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Rakyat Post
[Watch] When Cinema Meets Symphony: Why The Godfather Still Commands Respect
Subscribe to our FREE In the world of film-to-concert adaptations, some movies whisper and others roar. According to Gerard Salonga, who will conduct the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra for The Godfather Live at Dewan Filharmonik PETRONAS (DFP) this June, Francis Ford Coppola's 1972 masterpiece definitely belongs in the latter category. 'Art is seasonless, timeless,' Salonga told TRP, drawing parallels that span centuries and galaxies. Look at Star Wars from the 1970s—it's still incredibly popular among youngsters today. Beethoven's notes are 300 years old, and they still move people. The same can be said for any ideology or philosophy—if it's good, it will remain popular across generations.' The film, which may be over 50 years old, still retains its cultural impact undiminished. Salonga points to one of cinema's most famous moments of protest: 'Marlon Brando won the Oscar and rejected it. Art doesn't age—it evolves, it provokes, it endures.' The Score That Made History This enduring power is evident in the film's continued recognition. The Godfather was named the greatest film ever made by Empire magazine in 2008, a distinction also awarded by Entertainment Weekly and Metacritic. It came second in Sight & Sound's prestigious 2002 list and Time Out's 2003 readers' poll, and currently sits at number two on IMDb's all-time rankings. The film's immortality isn't just about Coppola's direction or Brando's performance—it's deeply rooted in Nino Rota's iconic score. The Italian composer, who achieved international acclaim in the 1950s and '60s for his work with Federico Fellini (La Dolce Vita, 8½) and Luchino Visconti (The Leopard, White Nights), created what the 'There is little film music as instantly recognisable as Nino Rota's opening music played on trumpet,' says Justin Freer, the CineConcerts founder and producer behind The Godfather Live. That haunting main theme, with its blend of traditional Italian folk music and jazz elements, takes on an entirely different quality when experienced live. The Art of Orchestral Restraint This enduring power shapes how Salonga approaches different film concerts. Unlike the interactive energy of a Harry Potter screening—where audiences gleefully shout out their Hogwarts houses—The Godfather demands a different kind of respect. 'Some film concerts don't require the conductor to say anything, but with Harry Potter, yes, it's fun to let the audience express themselves,' he explains. But The Godfather is an intense kind of film. The appropriateness of a conductor speaking to the audience depends on the material's appropriateness. The MPO has mastered this delicate balance over the years. Since their first film concert with Psycho in 2010, they've presented everything from Casablanca (2015) and Raiders of the Lost Ark (2019) to recent successes like Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone (2024) and the upcoming La La Land in Concert (2025). Each requires its own approach, its own level of audience engagement. Beyond the Usual Orchestra What makes this particular concert special goes beyond the film's gravitas. Salonga reveals that the orchestra will feature instruments rarely heard in traditional symphonic settings. We'll have mandolin and accordion in The Godfather orchestra, which don't always appear in orchestras. These additions aren't mere novelties—they're essential to capturing Rota's authentic Italian flavour. It's this attention to detail that transforms a simple movie screening into something approaching a religious experience for cinema lovers. Salonga sits alone in the magnificent DFP, surrounded by the venue's distinctive warm wood panelling and tiered red seating. The conductor prepares for The Godfather Live, where he'll lead the MPO in bringing Nino Rota's iconic score to life beneath the hall's soaring acoustic ceiling. (Pix: Fernando Fong) A Global Vision Salonga's vision extends far beyond Hollywood classics. He mentions recent successes, such as Bollywood films performed at London's Royal Albert Hall, and hints at untapped potential. There's a famous Chinese-language film we're hoping we can do here. P. Ramlee movies too, perhaps—hopefully that's something we can take off. The idea of hearing Tan Sri P. Ramlee's beloved compositions performed by a full orchestra while watching classics like Bujang Lapok or Do Re Mi on the big screen suggests an exciting future for Malaysian cinema-orchestra collaborations. This global approach reflects CineConcerts' extensive reach—the company will engage over 4.8 million people worldwide in more than 3,000 performances across 48 countries through 2025, working with prestigious orchestras such as the Chicago Symphony and the London Philharmonic. Perfect for the Godfather Faithful For those who know every line of Vito Corleone's wisdom, who can quote Sonny's temper tantrums, and who still get chills during the baptism sequence, this cinema-orchestra experience offers something unprecedented: the chance to experience a familiar masterpiece through entirely new senses. The format is perfect for Godfather devotees—the complete film shown in high definition while the live orchestra breathes new life into every musical moment, from that haunting trumpet theme to the subtle jazz undertones that underscore the family's moral complexity. As Freer puts it: 'The marriage of these two masterpieces on stage live at DFP will be a visual and aural treat like nothing else.' Some art transcends its original medium. The Godfather Live isn't just a concert or a movie screening—it's proof that when something is crafted with enough care and truth, it becomes immortal. The Godfather Live performs at DFP on 14 June at 8:00 PM. Tickets range from RM298 to RM648, available at Share your thoughts with us via TRP's . Get more stories like this to your inbox by signing up for our newsletter.
Hype Malaysia
21-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Hype Malaysia
MPO Announces 'Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba' Concert In KL This September
Calling all anime fans – it's time to get excited! If you're obsessed with the popular 'Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba' series, you're in for a treat. The Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra has announced that it will be holding an orchestral concert featuring music from the anime later this year. The musical ensemble has previously staged concerts featuring music from popular anime and video games, including the Genshin Impact concert and the Symphonic Ghibli concert. Based on our experience, those performances were nothing short of magical, so there's no doubt that this upcoming concert will be just as spectacular. According to the press statement, 'Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba In Concert' is set to immerse audiences in an extraordinary live musical celebration of the captivating world of Demon Slayer. The iconic soundtrack from 'Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba' – Tanjiro Kamado, Unwavering Resolve Arc will be brought to life by a full orchestra, while the most unforgettable scenes are projected onto a full-size cinema screen. This upcoming performance is more than just a musical event – it offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for anime fans and franchise enthusiasts to experience the series' emotional depth and cinematic grandeur live, for the very first time. Details of the event are as follows: Date: 20th September 2025 (Saturday) 20th September 2025 (Saturday) Time: 8pm 8pm Venue: Dewan Filharmonik PETRONAS Dewan Filharmonik PETRONAS Ticketing: RM298 (C-Reserve), RM388 (B-Reserve), RM478 (A-Reserve), RM558 (Premium), Suite: RM608/seat & RM648/seat Tickets for Friends of DFP will be available for purchase from 12pm on 21st May (Wednesday), while public sales will open at 12pm on 23rd May (Friday). Are you excited to see the show? Which track from the anime are you looking most forward to hearing live at the concert? We personally hope that there'd be a special guest vocalist to sing the iconic opening theme 'Gurenge', originally performed by LiSA. How about we enjoy the song to get us hyped for the upcoming event? Source: Instagram
Rakyat Post
19-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Rakyat Post
The Godfather Comes To KL: An Orchestral Crime You Can't Refuse
Subscribe to our FREE Legendary filmmaker Francis Ford Coppola's masterpiece The Godfather will make its Malaysian debut this June at Dewan Filharmonik PETRONAS (DFP), with the full might of the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra (MPO). The cinematic landmark will screen while Italian composer Mark your calendars for 14 June, when 'There is little film music as instantly recognisable as Nino Rota's opening music played on trumpet,' says American composer/conductor The marriage of these two masterpieces on stage will be a visual and aural treat like nothing else. Make It Your Business To Be There For those keeping score (pun intended), Rota's soundtrack ranks #5 on the The film itself needs no introduction—it won three Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and is frequently cited as the greatest film ever made. This isn't just another movie screening—it's a made-for-event that combines cinema's most powerful family saga with the raw power of a live symphony orchestra. Whether you're a cinephile, a music lover, or just someone who appreciates an elegant evening of entertainment, this is one sit-down you don't want to miss. The event you can't refuse: Date: Saturday, 14 June Time: 8:00 PM Venue: DFP, PETRONAS Twin Towers Tickets: RM298 to RM648 Available at: Share your thoughts with us via TRP's . Get more stories like this to your inbox by signing up for our newsletter.
Malaysian Reserve
02-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Malaysian Reserve
Tokyo Symphony Orchestra: A Symphony of Legends
FOR the first time ever, the prestigious Tokyo Symphony Orchestra makes its historic debut in Malaysia, bringing a monumental afternoon of music to the iconic Dewan Filharmonik Petronas. Under the masterful baton of Naoto Otomo—a visionary who has led the fiercely competitive Japanese music scene—the orchestra's 80 elite musicians promise an afternoon of sheer power, passion, and breathtaking artistry. At the heart of the program lies Chopin's Piano Concerto No. 1 in E minor, performed by acclaimed Japanese pianist Tomoharu Ushida. Known for his profound musical sensitivity and impeccable technique, Ushida breathes new life into this Romantic masterpiece, delivering a performance both soul-stirring and unforgettable. The journey continues with Mussorgsky's Pictures at an Exhibition, in the dazzling orchestration by Maurice Ravel. Inspired by a vivid gallery of paintings, this electrifying suite transports audiences from the eerie charm of The Gnome to the thunderous majesty of The Great Gate of Kiev—a true symphonic tour de force. More than a concert, this is a celebration of international friendship and artistic excellence—a landmark moment in cultural collaboration between Japan and Malaysia. Experience a historic afternoon of world-class music, as one of Asia's premier orchestras takes the Malaysian stage for the very first time. Date: 1 June 2025 (Saturday) Time: 3:00 PM (Afternoon Performance) Venue: Dewan Filharmonik Petronas, KLCC Ticket Prices: RM290 | RM430 | RM550 | RM680 Special Discount: 30% for Students Tickets available at: Official Dewan Filharmonik PETRONAS Website Don't miss this rare opportunity to witness one of Asia's leading orchestras live in Kuala Lumpur. Reserve your seats now for an unforgettable afternoon of world-class music. Naoto Otomo – Conductor Naoto Otomo is one of Japan's most prominent and versatile conductors, widely respected for his dynamic artistry, refined interpretations, and dedication to expanding Japan's orchestral music scene. A graduate of Tokyo University of the Arts and the University of Music and Performing Arts Vienna, Otomo began his career as Resident Conductor of the Tokyo Symphony Orchestra before becoming its Music Director. He has also served as Music Director of the Osaka Philharmonic Orchestra and the Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra, and is currently Conductor Laureate of the Tokyo Symphony Orchestra. Otomo has worked with leading orchestras across Europe, the United States, and Asia, and is a passionate advocate for contemporary music, often premiering works by both Japanese and international composers. His deep musical insight and precision have made him a key figure in shaping the modern orchestral sound in Japan. In addition to the concert stage, Otomo is active in opera and film music, and has played a crucial role in nurturing young talents through education and mentorship. His influence continues to inspire new generations of musicians across Asia and beyond. Tomoharu Ushida – Piano Tomoharu Ushida is one of Japan's most exciting young pianists, praised for his poetic expression and exceptional technique. Born in 1999, he began piano at the age of three and made his professional debut with Universal Music Japan at just 12. A prizewinner at the Hamamatsu International Piano Competition, Ushida has performed with leading orchestras worldwide and currently studies at the Fryderyk Chopin University of Music in Warsaw. His performances are celebrated for their elegance, emotion, and deep musical insight. Piano Concerto No. 1 in E minor, Op. 11 Frédéric Chopin Composed in 1830 when Frédéric Chopin was just 20 years old, this concerto is a stunning expression of youthful passion and poetic refinement. Though labeled 'No. 1,' it was actually his second piano concerto written, but the first to be published. The work is beloved for its soaring melodies, delicate interplay between piano and orchestra, and its deeply expressive Romantic spirit. The first movement opens with grandeur and drama, leading to a heart-rending Romanze that feels like a whispered nocturne—intimate, lyrical, and full of tender longing. The brilliant final movement dances with the rhythms of Polish folk music, bringing the concerto to a sparkling and energetic close. It is a true showcase of the piano as a singing, emotional voice—an ideal match for a pianist of poetic sensibility and technical grace. Pictures at an Exhibition Modest Mussorgsky (orchestrated by Maurice Ravel) Originally composed for solo piano by Russian composer Modest Mussorgsky in 1874, Pictures at an Exhibition is a vivid musical tribute to his late friend, artist Viktor Hartmann. Each movement represents a different artwork by Hartmann, with the recurring 'Promenade' theme portraying the composer strolling through a gallery. In 1922, French composer Maurice Ravel masterfully orchestrated the piece, transforming it into one of the most brilliant and colorful orchestral showpieces ever written. From the eerie whimsy of 'The Gnome' to the grand, triumphant finale 'The Great Gate of Kiev,' the suite is a powerful journey through sound and imagination—an exhibition not of pictures on walls, but of scenes vividly painted with music.
