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Hungarian cellist Zoltán Onczay reconnects with Pinoys via music

 

Popular Hungarian cellist Zoltán Onczay performs in 'A Night in Hollywood' held at the Aliw Theater in Pasay City on June 28. The Manila Symphony Orchestra presented the concert. (Images courtesy of Instagram)

By Robert Requintina

Published Sep 2, 2025 12:17 am

Renowned Hungarian cellist Zoltán Onczay radiated joy as he took to the stage for his debut performance in the Philippines. The vibrant atmosphere of the Aliw Theater in Pasay City came alive during the Manila Symphony Orchestra's enchanting event, "A Night in Hollywood."

With each stroke of his bow, Zoltán captivated the audience, creating a magical evening filled with the mesmerizing sounds of orchestral music.

"It's fantastic! I love Asia, especially Southeast Asia. But this is my first time in Manila. It's very nice and the people are very kind. I like the sunshine and the humidity," said Zoltán when asked about performing in Manila during an interview at the Manila Bulletin's Paper Cup coffee shop in Intramuros recently.

Performing for the Philippine audience, Zoltán added, "That was a fantastic concert, 'A Night in Hollywood.' I want to thank the organizers. I would also like to thank the Manila Symphony Orchestra, organized by Jeffrey Solares. It was a special concert with good music. I could feel the vibrant energy of the audience. The orchestra played various pieces from films, primarily from the works of John Williams. I had the opportunity to play his wonderful solo piece 'Seven Years In Tibet,' and I performed folk music."

Zoltán was accompanied by Hungarian Ambassador to the Philippines Titanilla Tóth during the interview at the Manila Bulletin. She was also impressed by the audience that attended the concert.

"The concert was a huge success, with many young people in the crowd. The crowd was fantastic, and it was a full house," the Ambassador said.

Hollywood, some people were dressed in costumes. We were surprised by how the younger generation tried to connect with the music."

Zoltán expressed his delight about the concert, a thrilling experience that resonated with his deep passion for Hollywood movies and the enchanting world of music.

The melodies and captivating performances transported him, making every moment feel like a scene straight out of a cinematic masterpiece.

Reconnecting with Pinoys

Unknown to many, Zoltán's bond with the vibrant Filipino community has its roots stretching back to the unforgettable year of 2022.

"We were on holiday with my family when I got a message from a friend who informed me about the concern of Jeffrey Solares, the Executive Director and Associate Conductor of the Manila Symphony Orchestra.

"The message read, 'Hi, we are from the Philippines. We need your help because we've been involved in an accident. Some of the cellos have broken. I didn't know what to do because it was Saturday.