Laufey Foundation names Manila Symphony Orchestra as partner and grant recipient
The Manila Symphony Orchestra has joined the Laufey Foundation as an international grantee and partner.
The nonprofit organization, led by Icelandic-Chinese singer Laufey, announced the partnership on Instagram.
"Manila Symphony Orchestra Foundation believes that music education, specifically orchestral training, is a powerful tool for developing disciplined, organized, confident and responsible young people who will drive future progress and nation-building," the Laufey Foundation wrote.
"Through education, training and audience-building projects, MSO Foundation has organized a system of multi-level training programs that makes orchestral music not only accessible but also makes the path to excellence more attainable," it added.
Other than MSO, newly announced recipients and partners include Leerorkest Nederland from Amsterdam and Hallé Youth Orchestra from Manchester, United Kingdom.
Following the news, the Manila Symphony Junior Orchestra shared a special string orchestra performance of Laufey's From The Start as a show of appreciation.
Founded in 1926, MSO is one of Asia’s oldest orchestras and the Philippines’ longest-running artistic institution. It has worked with several National Artists, including Antonio Molina, Antonino Buenaventura, Lucio San Pedro, Ernani Cuenco, Levi Celerio, and Ryan Cayabyab.
Its foundation aims to discover and train Filipino musical talent, giving them opportunities to perform alongside world-class artists and further develop their craft.
Launched in 2025, the Laufey Foundation supports young musicians worldwide through financial grants and professional-grade equipment. The foundation also aims to make youth orchestra programs more accessible, helping aspiring musicians, regardless of background or resources, gain experience that can prepare them for ensembles in college and university.
Its selection process considers programs that reflect Laufey’s values of excellence, accessibility, and support for young musicians. Priority is given to highly regarded youth orchestras, programs connected to orchestras Laufey has worked or will work with, and those supporting talented musicians who may not otherwise be able to afford tuition.
Some of its partners include The Boston Youth Symphony Orchestras, The Cleveland Orchestra Youth Orchestra, The Youth Orchestra Los Angeles, Global Arts, and Carnegie Hall’s national youth ensembles, NYO2 and NYO Jazz.
