MUSIC TALKS
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.
Thursday, February 19, 2026 | 2-3PM
THE PLANETS
Join us as we explore the music of the universe – both near and far. Rochester Symphony conductor Chia-Hsuan Lin takes us through The Planets by Gustav Holst, and uncovers the elements that have made it one of the most popular and recognizable compositions in classical music history. Special guest, composer Marko Bajzer, will talk about his new piece, soon-to-be performed by Rochester Symphony, Sky-Tinted Water. Inspired by Voyageurs National Park and the natural beauty of Northern Minnesota, we’ll hear directly from the composer about how he brought this natural landscape to life in music.
Marko Bajzer
composer, musician, artist
Sky-Tinted Water was commissioned by Rochester Symphony through a consortium of orchestras in Minnesota. The piece will be performed along with The Planets on February 21, 2026 at SKY FULL OF SOUND. To learn more visit:
Thursday, March 19, 2026 | 2-3PM
HIGHLAND ROMANCE
Discover Mendelssohn's "Scottish" Symphony (Symphony No. 3), inspired by the stories, misty ruins, and natural wild beauty of Scotland. Conductor Chia-Hsuan Lin delves into the musical elements that take the listener on this adventure to the highlands.
Musical guest to be announced.
Thursday, April 16, 2026 | 2-3PM
MOZART & FAURÉ
Discover the meaning behind Fauré's Requiem and the peace it's gentle and luminous melodies bring to the listener. Conductor Chia-Hsuan Lin also explains Mozart's signature wit and sparkle exemplified in the "Haffner" Symphony (Symphony No. 35).
Musical guest to be announced.
PREVIOUS PRESENTATIONS in the 2025/26 Season:
October 2025
TCHAIKOVKY'S VIOLIN CONCERTO
with featured guest: Rui Du, violin
Join Rochester Symphony conductor, Chia-Hsuan Lin, together with guest soloist, Rui Du, as they present insight into Tchaikovsky’s fiery and emotional Violin Concerto. Du, will share demonstrations and excerpts on violin.
November 2025
ECHOES OF THE EARTH
with featured guest: Alexandra Baroi, Rochester Symphony concertmaster
With the Bohemian dance rhythms of Dvořák's Czech Suite, the passionate Spanish flair of Sarasate’s Zigeunerweisen (Gypsy Airs), and the vivid musical portrait of the countryside in Beethoven’s Symphony No. 6 (“Pastoral” Symphony), Rochester Symphony conductor, Chia-Husan Lin reveals how music captures the deep connection between nature, culture, and tradition. Rochester Symphony Concertmaster, Alexandra Bartoi, will share excerpts on violin.
