Quinn Mason, Inspiration! Festive Overture

From the composer: "This is a piece that is dedicated to the power of inspiration, and the will to inspire. The composition begins with a flourish—much like the spark of an idea—and erupts into joyous interplay from all sections of the orchestra. The middle section is more of a reflection of the first section, soulful and profound in nature and the rest of the piece is in high spirits, inspired by that which came before it."

Léon Boëllmann, Variations symphoniques, Op. 23 
with Laura Ospina, cello

Although French Romantic composer Léon Boëllmann was known primarily for his compositions for organ, his Variations symphoniques was performed often by contemporary cellists during his lifetime. Then, after World War II, the piece mysteriously disappeared from cellists' repertoires. Luckily, a new generation of cellists has rediscovered this masterpiece and its rich sonorities, virtuosic demands, and unique form.

Gustav Holst, The Planets (excerpts)

Experience the majesty and wonder of the cosmos through the lens of Gustav Holst's epic work. Made up of vignettes inspired by astrology and early 20th-century scientific advances, this work takes the listener on a journey through the moods and characters that abound on the final frontier.