Classical MuSIC UNVEILED 

Join Rochester Symphony at Rochester Public Library for a series of presentations that reveal the hidden brilliance behind the masterpieces that will be performed during our concert season. Through recorded music excerpts, stories, and demonstrations by orchestra musicians, Rochester Symphony Music Director, Chia-Hsuan Lin, shares the history and musical elements that create an exciting listening experience — for both newcomers to classical music and lifelong listeners. Musical selections will focus on those included in Rochester Symphony's upcoming concerts for those who want to hear the full versions performed live. 

Rochester Public Library Auditorium
101 2nd St. SE, Rochester, MN

All presentations are free and open to the public. No advance registration is required.

2026/27 Season Presentations

 

Friday, October 23, 2026 | 2-3PM
THE INFINITE SEA

with featured guest: Brian Woods, piano

Join Rochester Symphony conductor, Chia-Hsuan Lin (pronounced Jah-Shwen), as she presents insight into Piano Concerto No. 3, by Sergei Rachmaninoff, a work of such virtuosity that it was once thought impossible to perform. Visiting piano soloist Brian Woods will share the artist's perspective on performing this monumental piece of music.

Conductor Lin will also play excerpts from La Mer (The Sea), by Claude Debussy, and explain how the composer brought the shimmering and powerful sound of the sea to life through music.

Thursday, November 19, 2026
BEETHOVEN'S REVOLUTION

with featured guest: Luke Berkley, Rochester Symphony principal horn

Rochester Symphony conductor Chia-Husan Lin explores music inspired by the great master of classical music, Ludwig van Beethoven. Contemporary composer Anna Clyne’s Stride and Johannes Brahms’s choral masterpiece "Song of Destiny" (Schicksalslied) contain themes of defiance and determination inspired by the program’s centerpiece - Beethoven’s Symphony No. 3, "Eroica." Lin will share the story behind Beethoven’s vision of freedom triumphing over tyranny, and the ways this groundbreaking symphony revolutionized the musical world. Musician Luke Berkley, principal horn of Rochester Symphony, will join conductor Lin to perform musical excerpts and demonstrations.

Wednesday, February 3, 2027 | 2-3PM
JUPITER RISING

Details coming soon.

Thursday, March 4, 2027 | 2-3PM
HYMN OF RESILIENCE

Details coming soon.

Thursday, April 22, 2027
DREAMS OF ENCHANTMENT

Details coming soon.