Bring the entire family and join the MSO and Music Director William Schrickel as they explore and perform Bartók's Concerto for Orchestra in two performances of this special one-hour Family Concert. Hear how Bartók, penniless, ill and living in New York, reluctantly agrees to write this masterpiece only after repeated urging by conductors Serge Koussevitsky and Fritz Reiner. Discover how the composer molds the work's five movements into a cohesive whole, marvel at the virtuosity he requires from every section of the orchestra and chuckle at the musical insult he hurls at Russian composer Dmitri Shostakovich's 7th Symphony. You won't be scared of 20th century music ever again! After the performance, come up on the stage and chat with the musicians. A splendid time is guaranteed for all!

William Schrickel, conductor

Béla Bartók ­ Concerto for Orchestra

St. Matthew's Catholic Church Hall Avenue & Robie Street, St. Paul