Masterworks Series Masterworks: Levity

Brahms’ Symphony No. 2 with Tessa Lark

With violin virtuoso Tessa Lark as our guest, Daniel Cho leads the Alabama Symphony Orchestra in a program that balances celebration with substance. Jessie Montgomery’s Starburst opens with a burst of energy — a short, propulsive work that has become one of the most-performed pieces by a living American composer. Lark then takes center stage in Bernstein’s Serenade, a violin concerto in all but name, inspired by Plato’s Symposium and brimming with the rhythmic vitality Bernstein brings to everything he touches. Brahms’ Second Symphony closes the evening — sunny and expansive, the most warmhearted of his four symphonies.

Thanks to our concert sponsor:

Thanks to our Masterworks series sponsor, Health Pros for the ASO.

Plan Your Visit

Conductor Comments is a free benefit to all ticket holders. Come early and hear insights that only the conductor can share. Offered on both Friday and Saturday evenings, from 6:15–6:35, the conductor offers history and context on the arrangements you’ll hear, along with insight into how the program flows together — a wonderful way to deepen your experience before the first note fills the hall.

The door is open when you arrive, and we’re glad to have you join us at any point — open seating, no reservation needed. Volunteers are on hand to help you find your way.

Join us in the Reynolds-Kirschbaum Recital Hall, found in the upper lobby of the Alys Stephens Center.

Artists

Daniel Cho, conductor

Tessa Lark, violin

Program to Include

MONTGOMERY Starburst

BERNSTEIN Serenade

BRAHMS Symphony No. 2 in D Major