In the Ross Family Theatre at the Kirkwood Performing Arts Center

Bach to the Future and USCO 

2:15pm Conductor's Conversation
3:00pm Concert

Enjoy an afternoon of expressive contrasts and timeless beauty with the University City Symphony Orchestra, led by Music Director Leon Burke. This inspired program bridges classical elegance and jazz innovation, opening with Mozart’s radiant Piano Concerto No. 21, performed by Junhong Jiang, winner of the Artist Presentation Society competition. Bartók’s poignant Concerto for Viola follows, featuring Marcello Jimenez in one of the composer’s most moving late works. The concert concludes with Charlie Parker’s iconic Bird with Strings, spotlighting saxophonist Kenrick Smith in a lush fusion of jazz and orchestral sound.

This performance is presented with support from the Regional Arts Commission and with public support from the Missouri Arts Council, a state agency.