Since music education stimulates your emotional and cognitive abilities, it can allow our brain to think in new and different ways. Overall, whether you have learned several different instruments, or simply listen to music, the influence of classical music is undeniable.

Promoting Western Art Music in the sense of a historical development supports a key concept that such a development is always only possible in the respective culture itself. In other words, the experience of Western classical music as a historical process may help to revitalize the same consciousness in the Cambodian people concerning their own classical music traditions.

It is noteworthy that some Cambodian specialists began to study Western (European) classical music, for example, Loch Bonsamnang, Chan Vitharo, So Soronos; aside from the established composers, Ung Chinnary and Him Sophy. For these people, the collaboration with European professionals may add significantly to their personal approach. It is strongly hoped that this also happens in reverse. Only through mutual learning and understanding may we contribute to a better and more peaceful world.

Meta’s “Western Classical Music” department – under the leadership of German professor Anton Issselhardt and his “Artplus Foundation” – organizes 10 concerts per year that cover various formats such as classical concerts, lecture concerts or “Listen Twice”, a series that explores the musical practice of variations. For the latest events, please check our calendar.

Another vital part of the program is the annual International Music Festival Phnom Penh, that had its first edition in 2003. It has become an integral part of cultural life in Phnom Penh and is seen as part of a European contribution to the Cambodian music scene and arts education.All performances begin with pre-concert talks that guide audiences through the music they are about to hear, providing an entertaining look at the repertoire and composers before the performance begins. With a different focus each year, the International Music Festival keeps enchanting Cambodians as much as foreign visitors. The festival is held annually in November.