Kuala Lumpur, 2 July 2010 - Mercedes-Benz Malaysia and Dewan Filharmonik PETRONAS (DFP) hosted over 150 children and adults from eight homes to a fun-filled afternoon of musical delights celebrating famous heroic tales at the ‘Heroes and Heroines’ Open Rehearsal by the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra (MPO) conducted by Matthew Coorey and presented by Kevin Hathway.

The ‘Heroes and Heroines’Open Rehearsal was held especially for underprivileged children and wheelchair-bound individuals giving them the chance to enjoy a concert experience in a world-class hall. The experience also provided an exclusive look into the working sessions of an orchestra.

The children from the San Pedro Shelter Home, Rumah KIDS, Angel’s Home, Persatuan Kanak-Kanak Istimewa Ampang, Taman Megah’s Handicapped & Disabled, Pusat Pemulihan Dalam Komuniti and Bangsa Ria as well as the residents under Yayasan Salam (TLC Group) were abuzz with excitement as they waited in anticipation for the rehearsal to begin. For many, it was the first time they experienced the beauty of classical music by a live orchestra.

They were in awe as they took in the scene of the concert hall with its 83-member orchestra. From the moment the first note was played, the entire atmosphere in the hall turned festive. They were thrilled and enchanted as they marched with soldiers into Rome, balanced an apple like William Tell, entered the magical world of Harry Potter, danced with Orpheus, saddled-up for a cowboy rodeo and became an accomplice to Mickey Mouse in The Sorcerer’s Apprentice.

Adding to the excitement, the conductor and presenter also interacted with the audience, explaining to them the various sections of the orchestra and gave some of them the opportunity to be part of the orchestral experience.

Peter Honegg, President & CEO of Mercedes-Benz Malaysia, was all smiles as he looked at the delighted expressions surrounding him.

“It is truly heartwarming to see everyone enjoying this musical experience. Music is one of the most wonderful art forms we have especially for children as it provides them an avenue for self-expression and a wonderful source of inspiration.

The concert was an excellent opportunity for the kids to become familiar with various musical instruments and the members of the MPO were fantastic with the audience,” he remarked.

“The support by Mercedes-Benz Malaysia further strengthens the already existing relationship that the company has with PETRONAS. It is excellent in furthering PETRONAS aim of making the music of the MPO accessible to all Malaysians including the underprivileged community. I am very happy to see both companies work together to give a wonderful experience to the less fortunate as can be seen in this Open Rehearsal today,” said Puan Karina Ridzuan, CEO of DFP & MPO.

Co-presenting the ‘Heroes and Heroines’ Open Rehearsal was an initiative under the Mercedes-Benz Malaysia’s StarBuilders programme launched last year which aims to provide learning opportunities, build self confidence and encourage social interaction amongst children. The company has established relationships with children from several homes over the years and has organised get-togethers, outings as well as regular visits to the homes.