In September 2025, Min-On hosted the El Salvador–Japan Friendship Concert, co-organized with the Embassy of El Salvador and Japan’s Agency for Cultural Affairs.
The two concerts featured OPUS 503, a lyrical pop trio of operatic singers—José Guerrero, Mauro Iglesias and Esaú Osorio—joined by Japanese soprano Mizuka Kobayashi and pianist Karin Furukawa. Following their performance in Tokyo, we spoke with the members of OPUS 503 about the origin of their name, their experiences with cultural exchange, and the power of music to foster peace and friendship.
◆ Watch the interview highlights at
OPUS 503 – Lyrical Pop Trio from El Salvador OPUS 503 is a lyrical pop trio from El Salvador, comprising José Guerrero, Mauro Iglesias, and Esaú Osorio. Founded in 2017, the group blends the strength and elegance of operatic vocals with the warmth of Latin American popular music, creating a classical-crossover sound that resonates with audiences across cultures. “Their wide-ranging repertoire spans opera arias, bel canto classics, and iconic songs from El Salvador and across Latin America—each reinterpreted with contemporary arrangements and a sound uniquely their own.” OPUS 503 has released several albums—including El Salvador bajo mi piel (2018), Balsamero (2019), Centroamérica Libre (2021), OPUS 503 Gold (2023) and Corazón de Añil (2024–)—and has performed throughout Central America, the United States, Europe and Asia, appearing at embassies, cultural festivals and major concert halls. They are widely regarded as cultural ambassadors of El Salvador and Central America.
◆Full Concert Video: El Salvador-Japan Friendship Concert
MIN-ON: Thank you for sharing your time to be interviewed. How did OPUS 503 come together, and what is the story behind their name?
José Guerrero: We are very pleased with your question, as it is a fascinating one for us. “Opus” is an Italian and Latin term, commonly used in classical music catalogues, and it reflects our training and background as opera singers. “503” is the area code of El Salvador. In this way, OPUS 503 can be understood as meaning “Opus El Salvador.
MIN-ON: Having performed in many countries, do you have a particular memory or cultural exchange that has left a strong impression on you?
Mauro Iglesias: First of all, cultural exchange is very meaningful and important for us as artists from El Salvador. Through music and art, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs seeks to connect with other countries, creating a bridge between cultures. It is fascinating to experience different musical styles here in Asia and to see how people respond to us and perceive El Salvador. Our country has a rich musical heritage, and it is truly wonderful to be able to present and represent El Salvador here in Japan.
MIN-ON: Based on your experience, how do you believe music fosters peace and friendship among people?
Esaú Osorio: Music is truly the universal language. It guides us toward harmony—especially through the messages in song lyrics—bringing people together. Even a simple word like “love” can transcend borders, or carry us beyond them. In this way, music can bring us a step closer to peace.
MIN-ON: As this is your debut tour in Japan, what would you like to convey to the audience and readers here?
Mauro Iglesias: First of all, we want to thank Japan. This week has been incredibly exciting and fascinating, giving us the chance to experience your culture, your music, and meet your talented artists. There are so many remarkable artists here. We hope this will be our first visit, but certainly not the last. We also look forward to welcoming you in El Salvador.
◆ Concert News
◆ Min-On Music Journey: El Salvador Edition
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