Dili, January 9, 2026 (Democracia Media) – The President of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste hosted a piano and orchestra concert at the Nicolau Lobato Presidential Palace, celebrating the nation’s outstanding emerging musical talents and highlighting the promising future of Timor-Leste’s cultural landscape. This activity was accessed by Democracy Media through the President’s official page today.
President José Ramos-Horta stated in an official communiqué that the concert featured remarkable performances by young pianists Solomon Bravery Hasudungan Horta and Teshan Singh Sidhu, accompanied by the Dom Bosco Baucau Youth Orchestra and the Berliku Fanu Rai Orchestra (BFR).
“Solomon Bravery Hasudungan Horta (born on 10 August 2014) is a multi-talented young artist of Timorese and Indonesian descent. A gifted pianist, he has won various first prizes and the ‘Most Promising Pianist’ award at festivals in Northern Ireland. His talents also extend to oratory and drama, earning him significant recognition, including participation in BBC Teach productions and a leading role in the Disney+ short Christmas film The Boy and the Octopus, directed by Taika Waititi,” the President stated.
The President further explained that Teshan Singh Sidhu (11 years old), son of the Malaysian Ambassador to Timor-Leste, H.E. Dato’ Amarjit Singh Sarjit Singh, began studying piano just three months ago, initially learning on the keyboard. Despite his short training period, he demonstrated notable interest, dedication, and enthusiasm during the concert, performing a set of four short pieces inspired by both traditional and universally recognized melodies, offering the audience an accessible and enchanting musical interlude.
President Ramos-Horta also highlighted the Dom Bosco Baucau Youth Orchestra, which has gained recognition as an ambassador for the new generation of musicians. Founded in 2021 under the direction of Maestro Father Adérito Manuel Costa, the orchestra provides solid musical training to young talents at the Dom Bosco Baucau School of Music. The ensemble is known for its ability to interpret both classical and contemporary repertoire and plays a significant role in promoting music and culture among Timorese youth.
The President also described the Berliku Fanu Rai Orchestra (BFR) as a Timorese musical association founded in 2009 by Mr. Kiera Zen and formally recognized by the Ministry of Justice in 2010. The association plays a fundamental role in promoting traditional and contemporary music as a vehicle for cultural expression, youth empowerment, and community engagement. Its activities include operating a professional recording studio, offering training in music production and sound engineering, and organizing concerts, festivals, and educational programs.
“The concert blended beautiful international melodies with traditional Timorese music, reflecting the nation’s vibrant cultural tapestry. Part I featured dynamic performances by the Dom Bosco Baucau Youth Orchestra, selections by Teshan Singh Sidhu, and a festive repertoire by the Berliku Fanu Rai Orchestra,” the President noted.
Part II of the concert showcased Solomon Horta’s classical piano mastery, including his two inspirational spoken pieces, “This Is Who You Are” and “The Hill We Climb,” followed by the screening of the Disney+ short film The Boy and the Octopus, directed by renowned New Zealand filmmaker Taika Waititi, in which Solomon Horta plays the leading role.
“Music is a universal language of peace and unity. In the harmony of piano and orchestra, we hear the voice of our nation’s future, a future built on the talents of our youth, the strength of our culture, and the shared rhythm of hope that beats in the hearts of all Timorese,” President José Ramos-Horta expressed.
The concert successfully highlighted the depth and diversity of Timor-Leste’s emerging talents and served as a strong platform for cultural exchange and dialogue through the universal language of music. The event concluded with the presentation of certificates to the artists and a welcoming cocktail reception.
Report: Nelfiano
Photo: Presidential Media