Jonathon Heyward, conductor
Yefim Bronfman, piano

BEETHOVEN Piano Concerto No. 5, “Emperor”
JAMES LEE III Concerto for Orchestra (world premiere, BSO commission)
SMETANA The Moldau

BSO Music Director Jonathon Heyward leads a dynamic program possessing a strong sense of place. Completed while under siege, Beethoven melds Viennese sophistication with musical heroism amidst the backdrop of the Napoleonic Wars. Smetana's patriotic tribute to his homeland solidified his reputation as the "father of Czech music," a rousing and lush ode to the rivers and mountains surrounding Prague, culminating in a triumphant hymn. Composer in Residence James Lee III unveils the world premiere of his BSO-commissioned Concerto for Orchestra, channeling his own love of Baltimore in a daring and evocative new work.