Peace Notes

A Concert by the South Asian Symphony Orchestra

Alvin Arumugam, conductor
Pallavi Mahidhara, piano

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🗓  November 22, 2024​

📍 India International Centre

The South Asian Symphony Orchestra brought together talented musicians from across the region to foster peace and unity through the universal language of music. Inspired by Ambassador Nirupama Menon Rao’s extensive years in diplomacy, the orchestra aimed to provide a platform that promoted dialogue, cultural synergy, and friendly understanding among diverse communities.

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The concert featured an exquisite selection of compositions by Beethoven and Saint-Saëns, alongside a premiere of a new work by Indian composer Aryaman Joshi titled Chandrayaan, which celebrates the spirit and ambition of India’s lunar exploration endeavors. Under the masterful direction of Singaporean conductor Alvin Arumugam, the orchestra delivered a memorable performance, highlighted by the exceptional solo artistry of pianist Pallavi Mahidhara.

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Pallavi Mahidhara made her orchestral debut at the age of 10 and has since graced stages across five continents, including prestigious festivals such as Gstaad Menuhin and Verbier. She earned the Second Prize at the 69th Geneva International Piano Competition and hosts The Conscious Artist podcast, dedicated to mental health awareness for performing artists.

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Conductor Alvin Arumugam serves as the Music Director of the Musicians’ Initiative (Singapore) and the South Asian Symphony Orchestra. A distinguished graduate of the Royal College of Music in London, he has held assistant conductor positions with the BBC Symphony Orchestra and the Vienna Opera Academy. Alvin has collaborated with renowned conductors like Martyn Brabbins and Antonio Pappano, enriching his leadership and artistic vision.

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Programme Highlights:

Chandrayaan by Aryaman Joshi

Piano Concerto No. 2 by Saint-Saëns

Symphony No. 2 by Beethoven