Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra

Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra

The Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra (MPO) is a Malaysian orchestra, resident at the Dewan Filharmonik Petronas (Petronas Philharmonic Hall) in Kuala Lumpur. The orchestra gives concerts throughout Malaysia and also in Singapore.

Founded in 1997 under the direction of its first music director, Kees Bakels, the MPO gave its first concert on 17 August 1998 under the direction of Bakels. Bakels served as the MPO's music director until 2005, and currently holds the title of conductor laureate. Bakels initially had intended to step down from the post earlier, after James Judd had been named the MPO's next music director in September 2003. However, in April 2004, the MPO terminated the agreement with Judd without public explanation, and Judd never took up the post of the MPO's music director. Subsequently, Matthias Bamert was named the MPO's music director in November 2004, and served in the post from 2005 to 2008. Claus Peter Flor became the MPO's music director starting with the 2008-2009 season, with an initial contract of 3 years. In February 2012, nine European musicians were served with notice of dismissal provoking an outcry around the world. The International Federation of Musicians called on professionals to boycott MPO auditions.

The MPO has recorded for the BIS label, including music of Edouard Lalo.

Read more about Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra:  Music Directors

Famous quotes containing the word orchestra:

    “Pop” Wyman ruled here with a firm but gentle hand; no drunken man was ever served at the bar; no married man was allowed to play at the tables; across the face of the large clock was written “Please Don’t Swear,” and over the orchestra appeared the gentle admonition, “Don’t Shoot the Pianist—He’s Doing His Damndest.”
    —Administration in the State of Colo, U.S. public relief program. Colorado: A Guide to the Highest State (The WPA Guide to Colorado)