CONCERT DETAILS

The 2026-27 season opens with bravura to the tune of Copland’s stirring Fanfare for the Common Man. Since returning to the stage in 2024, violinist Hyun Jae Lim has captivated audiences and made waves the world over; in her hands, Barber's fiercely expressive concerto becomes a thing of wonder. Guest conductor Michael Sanderling concludes this dramatic opening concert with Tchaikovsky’s fifth symphony, full of patriotic meaning for the composer — “I am Russian in the fullest sense of the word,” he declared.

How you’ll feel: energized, inspired, and excited to begin a phenomenal season.

What to listen for:

  • To put it simply, listen for fate — after all, that’s who comes knocking throughout Tchaikovsky’s fifth symphony in a recurring motif.
  • The very first notes of the entire season are the opening to Copland’s Fanfare for the Common Man, which you’re likely to recognize. Hear a version here.
  • Experience the MSO debut of violinist Hyun Jae Lim. Following a major accident in 2020, Hyun Jae was unable to play the violin for four years. It was only in June 2024 that she picked up her violin again, finding a new routine that allowed her to reconnect with her instrument. Since that time, she has had tremendous success performing around the world, and we are thrilled to welcome her to the Bradley Symphony Center for the first time to open the season.

Support