Rachmaninoff's Third: Taking Flight

Ravel’s Daphnis and Chloé: Love and Transformation

Music Director Stéphane Denève, IN UNISON Chorus Director Kevin McBeth, and St. Louis Symphony Chorus Director Erin Freeman join Assistant Conductor Sam Hollister to reflect on a season defined by connection, collaboration, and growth. Together, they explore the themes of love and community at the heart of a program featuring Kevin Puts, Nathalie Joachim, and Ravel’s Daphnis and Chloé, including the long-awaited premiere of Joachim’s Family. The conversation offers a look back at meaningful moments from the season and a glimpse ahead to what’s next for the SLSO.

Rachmaninoff's Third: Taking Flight

SLSO Assistant Conductor Sam Hollister steps into the spotlight as guest, joined by host and audio engineer Kyle Pyke, for a behind-the-scenes look at a milestone moment—his SLSO subscription debut on the podium. The conversation explores the excitement and pressure of leading the orchestra, the journey to conducting, and the perspective shift from host to guest. Hollister also shares insights into shaping the energy of Gabriella Smith’s Tumblebird Contrails, approaching Prokofiev’s Piano Concerto No. 3 from a pianist’s lens, and navigating the emotional arc of Rachmaninoff’s Third Symphony.

From Mozart to Wagner: Mysticism and Wonder

SLSO Principal Keyboard Peter Henderson joins Assistant Conductor Sam Hollister to reflect on the contrasting musical worlds of Wagner, Mozart, Samy Moussa, and Respighi. He shares insight into the unique color and role of the keyboard within the orchestra, including the shimmering voice of the celesta, and explores how his work as both performer and teacher shapes his musical perspective.

Mahler’s Fifth: Landscapes of Emotion

SLSO Principal Trumpet Steven Franklin joins Assistant Conductor Sam Hollister to explore a program that pairs new music with a towering orchestral masterpiece. Franklin shares his approach to preparing works by living composers like Carlos Simon, reflects on his long relationship with Mahler’s Fifth Symphony, and offers insight into one of the most iconic trumpet solos in the repertoire. He also discusses the role of the trumpet within the larger brass section and the artistry behind choosing the right instrument to shape the sound of the orchestra.

Beethoven’s Emperor Concerto: Radiant Vision

Composer Kevin Puts joins Assistant Conductor Sam Hollister to discuss his Concerto for Orchestra and his ongoing relationship with the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra. Puts reflects on his roots in St. Louis and the experience of writing for a specific ensemble. He also shares insights into the inspiration behind his music and the collaborative journey of bringing a new work to life alongside Beethoven and Jasmine Guo on this program.