Jakarta – Monday, April 21, 2025 – Iskandar Widjaja’s concert The Classical Recital, held on Saturday, April 19, 2025 at Usmar Ismail Hall, Jakarta, captivated the audience with a beautiful fusion of global classical music and the rich tones of traditional Indonesian melodies. Presented in an intimate European-style classical recital format, the concert took the audience on an emotional, warm, and heartfelt musical journey.
The collaboration between violinist Iskandar Widjaja and talented pianist Stephanie Onggowinoto, a graduate of the Royal College of Music, London, delivered a spellbinding concert experience. Iskandar Widjaja, with his exceptional violin technique, delivered a stunning performance throughout the approximately two-hour concert, which included a 1.5-hour main program and a 30-minute intermission.
Even after the performance ended, the atmosphere at Usmar Ismail Hall remained electric. The audience, mesmerized by the performances of Iskandar Widjaja and Stephanie Onggowinoto, stayed in their seats, lost in the special memories they had just experienced. The beauty of the nearly two-hour musical journey touched not only the ears but also the hearts of everyone present.
The Classical Recital was more than just a performance—it was an emotional journey that immersed the audience in the depths of each composition, from classical works by Edvard Grieg to Indonesian traditional songs presented in majestic fashion. Every note carried emotion, every melody told a story. There was laughter, there were tears, and most importantly, there was a deep connection forged between the musicians and the audience.
As Iskandar Widjaja and Stephanie Onggowinoto left the stage after the encore, the applause still echoed throughout the hall. The audience didn’t just appreciate the extraordinary music—they felt a closeness to the maestro himself. Not just as a musician, but as someone who had led them into a more beautiful world, a world of music full of meaning and emotion.
After the show, fans had the rare opportunity to meet Iskandar Widjaja in a meet & greet and photo session—an unforgettable moment. For many, meeting the maestro who had transformed the way they experienced music felt like a dream come true.
With his warmth and friendliness, Iskandar conveyed that the concert was not merely an event, but a shared journey—a memory that would remain forever. For many, that Saturday night was about more than music—it was about feeling connected, about how music can unite hearts in peace and indescribable beauty.
The Classical Recital left a lasting impression. A celebration of classical music’s beauty, a journey that transcended time and space, bringing everyone present into the breathtaking world crafted by Iskandar Widjaja and Stephanie Onggowinoto. It was a night that didn’t just fill the ears, but also the soul, leaving eternal memories in the hearts of all who attended.
Renowned composer Addie MS expressed:
“I’ve attended several of Iskandar Widjaja’s concerts and recitals. But for me, this recital was the best I’ve ever experienced. Iskandar didn’t just showcase extraordinary technique—he showed the ability to truly communicate through his playing. Performing such a difficult repertoire isn’t easy, yet he appeared calm and composed. He’s reached a level where he can ‘speak’ through the voice of his instrument. That’s another level entirely. Congratulations and well done!”
Main Repertoire performed by Iskandar Widjaja with Stephanie Onggowinoto:
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C. Sinding – Suite in Old Style
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E. Grieg – Violin Sonata No. 3 in C minor
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P. Tchaikovsky – Valse-Scherzo Op. 34
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J. Lemazh – Konserto Nusantara
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P. de Sarasate – Zigeunerweisen
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J. Lemazh – Lir Ilir
Encore:
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A Million Dreams
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Kiss The Rain
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Lacrimae
The Meaning Behind The Classical Recital
The concert guided the audience through diverse musical landscapes, beginning with Grieg’s Sonata No. 3 with its Northern European flair, followed by Tchaikovsky’s elegant Valse-Scherzo, and Sarasate’s virtuosic Zigeunerweisen. The second half featured traditional Indonesian works, including the grand Konserto Nusantara, performed with classical refinement on violin and piano.
Konserto Nusantara, a special composition gifted to Iskandar Widjaja by Sri Sultan Hamengkubuwono X, presented Indonesian folk songs in a majestic classical format, leaving a deep impression on the audience.
Music composer Dwiki Dharmawan also praised Iskandar’s performance, saying:
“As always, Iskandar was phenomenal, and this time, his chemistry with Stephanie was absolutely beautiful. Of course, he always gives his best. He’s truly a maestro with a deep musical soul. I thoroughly enjoyed the concert—it’s one of the best I’ve seen from him. Even though the performance was minimal, just the two of them, it allowed the music to shine in its purest form. Congratulations, I’m proud of you.”
This concert adds to the list of successful international-class events in Indonesia and will be remembered as a special moment that blended world classical music with the unique soul of Indonesia.
At The Classical Recital at Usmar Ismail Hall, Iskandar Widjaja’s performance was further enhanced by his choice of outfits, which reflected elegance and the richness of Indonesian culture. In the first half, Iskandar wore a classic black ensemble designed by the renowned Poppy Dharsono, with a sleek, tailored cut and subtle details that fit the refined mood of the recital.
However, the highlight came in the second half, where he wore a bold and modern design by Wilsen Willim infused with Nusantara elements. The outfit maintained formal elegance with a fresh design and featured a batik sarong accent—evoking pride in Indonesia’s cultural heritage.
The batik sarong was carefully selected, showcasing meaningful traditional motifs and adding a deeply cultural touch. The combination of modern formalwear and traditional batik struck a balance between elegance and Indonesian warmth. This appearance not only impressed visually but also created a deeper emotional connection with the audience, reflecting Iskandar’s sincere love and respect for Indonesian culture.
With his thoughtful wardrobe choices, Iskandar Widjaja elevated the concert’s aesthetic and cultural value, turning it into more than a musical event—it became a celebration of Indonesia’s rich and meaningful heritage.
Iskandar Widjaja shared:
“Thank you to all the audience members who came to The Classical Recital. Thanks also to the media partners and press for their support, and to Steinway & Sons and House of Piano for their contribution to the success of this concert with me and Stephanie.”
Stephanie Onggowinoto added,
“I’m very grateful to collaborate with Iskandar in this concert. Thank you to everyone who supported us, and especially to Steinway & Sons and House of Piano for their incredible support.”
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