Hungarian cellist Zoltán Onczay charms Manila audience
Published Sep 8, 2025 03:48 pm
Hungarian cellist Zoltán Onczay, joined by Ambassador Dr. Titanilla Tóth of the Embassy of Hungary, during an exclusive one-on-one interview with Manila Bulletin Entertainment Editor Bobby Requintina
Renowned Hungarian cellist Zoltán Onczay made a stirring Philippine debut at the Aliw Theater in Pasay City, performing alongside the Manila Symphony Orchestra during “A Night in Hollywood” concert. The program featured iconic film scores. including John Williams’ “Seven Years in Tibet” as well as folk music, with Onczay lauding the audience’s vibrant energy and the heartfelt warmth of Manila.
Onczay’s visit to the Manila Bulletin head office in Intramuros was accompanied by Hungarian Ambassador Dr. Titanilla Tóth, where he shared his deep affection for Southeast Asia and recounted a touching story from 2022 that forged his bond with Filipino musicians.
Hungarian virtuoso Zoltán Onczay delivers an impromptu performance at the Manila Bulletin lobby.
“We were on holiday with my family when I got a message from a friend about an urgent concern from Jeffrey Solares, executive director and associate conductor of the Manila Symphony Orchestra,” Onczay recalled.
“The message said, ‘Hi, we’re from the Philippines. We need your help—some of our cellos were damaged in an accident.’ It was a Saturday, and I didn’t know what to do. But we met, went to a cello shop, and just an hour before the concert, the instruments were repaired. It was tough.”
That moment of crisis became a bridge between cultures. Onczay, whose friend had connections to Solares’ team, even gave the group a brief tour while waiting for the repairs. Ambassador Tóth praised Onczay’s generosity, saying, “The friendly attitude of Hungarians toward others can open doors.” She also highlighted Hungary’s rich musical legacy, citing institutions like the Franz Liszt Academy and the Zoltán Kodály Institute.
Hungarian cellist Zoltán Onczay, accompanied by Ambassador Dr. Titanilla Tóth of the Embassy of Hungary, with Manila Bulletin executives SVP Aurora C. Tan, Vice Chairman and President Dr. Emilio C. Yap III, and VP PBGen Reynaldo S. Rafal (Ret), during a special visit to the MB headquarters
To share his artistry with the Manila Bulletin community, Onczay performed impromptu pieces at the media office’s lobby and later in the Executive Ballroom, leaving audiences in awe.
A cellist since the age of seven, Onczay grew up in a musical family and cherishes memories of performing with his father. He also expressed admiration for legendary cellist Yo-Yo Ma. Now, he’s preparing to release his first solo CD album featuring contemporary Hungarian compositions, and hopes to captivate younger audiences through both classical and electric cello projects.
“I want to play as long as I can,” he said, embracing a musical journey that blends tradition with innovation.
Cellist Zoltán Onczay enchants Manila Bulletin executives with impromptu cello pieces.