By Veronica Uy
After nearly a decade, the world-renowned Vienna Boys’ Choir will be performing once again in the Philippines, with two highly anticipated concerts scheduled for October 2025.
“I’m also thrilled to announce that after almost 10 years, we are bringing back the Vienna Boys’ Choir to the Philippines. For two concerts only in October next year, in partnership with our friends from Ovation Productions. So watch the space,” said Austrian Ambassador to the Philippines Johann Brieger during the celebration of Austrian National Day.
The ambassador also called on young Filipino dancers to participate in the Polonaise, the traditional opening dance for Vienna’s esteemed balls which Austria is also bringing to the Philippines June 25 next year.
“Together with our dear friends from the Johann Strauss Society of the Philippines, we have already begun laying the groundwork to upgrade the Andrew Strauss Concert and bring back the tradition of the Vienna Ball to the Philippines next year. Supported by the City of Vienna, we will celebrate the two hundredth anniversary of Johann Strauss with a conductor from Vienna,” Ambassador Brieger said.
“As it is tradition in Vienna, the ball will be opened with a Polonaise by young dancers. And I invite you really now to join the fun. Now when I look around, I saw some young ladies, young gentlemen. We’re looking to the age of between 16 and 25. Who would qualify for that? But I guess there are many who have children, grandchildren. Who might be interested, please inform them,” he added.
The Vienna Boys’ Choir’s return is a much-anticipated cultural highlight, offering audiences an opportunity to experience Austria’s rich musical heritage. With a combination of classical melodies and delightful performances, these concerts aim to foster a deeper cultural connection between the Philippines and Austria.
“As you already know from previous years, I’ve been privileged to be able to tap into a very rich fabric of cultural and artistic cooperation between the Philippines and Austria,” the ambassador said as he congratulated the Manila Symphony Junior Orchestra, who won first place at the Summa Cum Laude International Youth Music Festival held at the prestigious Musikverein in Vienna.
“This remarkable achievement not only showcases the exceptional talent of our young musicians, but also highlights the Philippines’ growing presence in the global cultural space,” he said, noting Austria and the Philippines’ common love of music.
