Scheherazade

About this event

Prepare for an absolute powerhouse of a show where timeless storytelling collides with modern, boundary-pushing artistry . By fusing the epic scale of classic masterworks with the fresh, irresistible drive of contemporary genius, this performance delivers an exhilarating sonic journey of vivid colors, dramatic tension, and raw talent designed to keep you on the edge of your seat from the very first note. As the orchestra weaves the exotic, seductive tales of the Arabian Nights into soaring melodies and shimmering textures, the entire hall will come alive.

Under the baton of guest conductor Christopher Allen, the performance begins with Karen LeFrak’s American Promise , written in anticipation of America’s 250th anniversary. Built around an evolving “Freedom Motif” introduced by the horns, the piece journeys through cinematic fanfares, marching rhythms, and a lyrical Americana section featuring a tender clarinet melody before building to a triumphant finale.

The energy shifts into something extraordinarily personal as violin virtuoso Charles Yang takes center stage for Kris Bowers’ For a Younger Self . Written specifically for Yang, a close friend since their teenage student days at Juilliard, Bowers designed the violin as the protagonist in a classic Hero’s Journey. The piece maps out the self-doubt, anxiety, and ultimate confidence of growing up in the music world, moving from a timid violin being pushed around by the orchestra to a triumphant finale where the soloist commands the stage .

Closing out the evening is Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov’s dazzling masterwork, Scheherazade , bringing the mythical tales of One Thousand and One Nights to life in vivid symphonic detail . A solo violin weaves delicate, intricate melodies to represent the heroine telling her nightly stories, taming the thunderous brass motif of the stern Sultan. From the rolling waves of Sinbad’s ship to a wild festival in Baghdad, the orchestra weaves exotic colors, sweeping themes, and irresistible drama into an unforgettable, cinematic finale.

Yang plays classical violin with the charisma of a rock star.

Boston Globe

Plan Your Visit

• This concert is available as part of a Classic Series or Create Your Own Subscription .

• This concert will be preceded by Concert Comments, a pre-concert talk, beginning one hour before each performance.

• Linda Ronstadt Music Hall has a clear bag policy. Read more about this venue .

Music Director José Luis Gómez recommends these videos:

From Tucson Symphony Orchestra