Multiple Grammy winner Yefim Bronfman has been described as an artist "for whom no score is too demanding." Hear his remarkable affinity for Beethoven in one of his signature works, the Fifth Piano Concerto. It's believed that for unknown reasons, a publisher later added the title "Emperor" to Beethoven's last and most ambitious piano concerto. Beethoven would not have approved, especially since the real emperor, Napoleon, was bombarding his adopted city of Vienna at the time the piece was written. Relax into the serene slow movement and let all your cares melt away, then exult in the euphoric energy of the finale.

The Planets put Holst on the musical map, not a happy situation for someone who shunned the public spotlight and once wrote to a friend "Woe to you when all men speak well of you." In writing his most popular piece, Holst was inspired by the astrological significance of the planets rather than "any connection with the deities of classical mythology bearing the same names. If any guide to the music is required, the subtitle of each piece will be found sufficient, especially if it used in a broad sense. For instance, Jupiter brings jollity in the ordinary sense, and also the more ceremonial kind of rejoicing associated with religious or national festivities. Saturn brings not only physical decay, but also a vision of fulfillment. Mercury is the symbol of mind." Whatever meaning or association this piece may or may not evoke, the sheer orchestral genius of The Planets and its other-worldly ending are sure to bring the season to a cosmic conclusion!

Please note these are working rehearsals and pieces may not be played fully, piece order may change, and soloists may not sing or play as fully as in performance. Also note the conductor is not mic'ed to allow the musicians to work together more freely.