Thomas Wilkins with Brahms & Dvořák, Brahms, and more

Johannes Brahms, born in Hamburg, Germany, was a pivotal Romantic era composer. He masterfully blended classical forms with rich harmonies and lyrical melodies in his symphonies, concertos, and chamber music. Celebrated for works like "Hungarian Dances" and his "Lullaby," he is considered one of classical music's "Three Bs" alongside Bach and Beethoven, leaving an enduring legacy.

Thomas Wilkins, a Norfolk, Virginia native, is a distinguished orchestra conductor. He is Principal Conductor of the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra, Artistic Advisor for the Boston Symphony, and Music Director Laureate of the Omaha Symphony. Wilkins is celebrated for his engaging style and dedication to music education. He received the Leonard Bernstein Lifetime Achievement Award and the Golden Baton Award.

Antonín Dvořák, a celebrated Czech composer, was born in Nelahozeves, Bohemia. A master of the Romantic era, he infused his attractive melodies and brilliant orchestrations with Bohemian folk influences, later incorporating American elements. He is renowned for works like his Symphony No. 9 "From the New World," Cello Concerto, Slavonic Dances, and the opera Rusalka. Johannes Brahms supported his early career. Dvořák is celebrated for popularizing Slavic music and his versatile compositional style.

The Virginia Symphony Orchestra, based in Southeastern Virginia, is known for world-class performances, innovative programming, and community engagement, with national acclaim and appearances at Carnegie Hall and the Kennedy Center.