Guess who’s coming into town next week? The country’s foremost international conductor Oscar Yatco, that’s who.

CCP President Raul Sunico has announced that the Germany-based conductor and violinist will lead the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra in commemorating the centennial of  the composers Wagner and Verdi with a performance of Wagner’s “Tannhauser Overture” and Verdi’s “Bestri Sicilian,” together with Tchaikovsky’s “Symphony No. 6,” on March 6, at the Tanghalang Aurelio Tolentino (CCP Little Theater).

Friends of the esteemed maestro report that he had a near-death experience recently that put into question whether he could make the long trip from Germany. But they said his passionate wish to come back and meet once again with old friends and relatives helped him overcome all obstacles.

When Sunico heard about Yatco’s impending visit, he did all he could to invite him to conduct this special concert, despite the short notice and preparation. Yatco has agreed, so Manila is surely in for a night of spectacular and moving music-making this coming Wednesday.