usher in spring

Along with special guest cellist Sterling Elliot, Minnesota Orchestra marks the debut of conductor Kristiina Poska with two stunningly radiant pieces from Beethoven and Tchaikovsky, as well as Aaron Copland's glowing tribute to the season, Appalachian Spring! Beethoven's joyous Eighth Symphony stars, known by the composer himself as his "Little Symphony in F". The somewhat exploratory symphony is one in which he let his creativity run wild, creating an ebullient, playful work to rival any of his best.

Tchaikovsky's Variations on a Rococo Theme meanwhile is a graceful and enchanting composition for cello and orchestra, showcasing Sterling Elliot's lyrical capabilities on the cello through a series of delightful variations on an 18th-century theme. A marvelous spring night with the orchestra!