The warmth and passion of Russian composers are on the bill at the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra this weekend.  Under the baton of Music Director Philip Mann, the ASO performs works by Sergei Prokofiev, Dmitri Shostakovich and Pyotr Ilich Tchaikovsky.

The program begins with one of the greatest of neoclassical works, Prokofiev’s Symphony No. 1 in D Major, Op. 25 “Classical.” This presents the ASO in a masterwork full of youthful vitality. A virtuoso task for the orchestra, its vivacious charm has endeared it to musicians and audiences alike.

Legendary pianist, Dmitri Alexeev, follows with a special performance of Shostakovich’s Concerto for Piano No. 2 in F Major, Op. 102. Shostakovich created this work for his 19 year old son, Maxim, it is a lively and jolly work of light-hearted flair, interrupted by a soulful, romantic second movement which conjures colors and harmonies reminiscent of Rachmaninoff.

Tchaikovsky closes the program with his Symphony No. 2 in C Minor – “Little Russian Symphony.” The work is one of his most optimistic and jubilant works. It is a true masterpiece, successful from its premiere, and full of folk music and fire.

Performances are at Robinson Center Music Hall on Saturday, January 28 at 8pm and Sunday, January 29 at 3pm.