Concert #2 was such a contrast to the first San Fransisco performance, but certainly just as enjoyable. I applaud UMS for taking such a risk… I only wish more people in Ann Arbor were open to at least experiencing these maverick performances. Attendance seemed low at both concert #1 and concert#2, and I heard a women say loudly during the Cage piece “I can’t believe we paid money to see this,” before storming out. The Cage piece was not my favorite composition on the program, but I was open to experiencing it and waiting to pass judgement. Overall, fantastic program. I feel so lucky to be able to see such an all star orchestra with such amazing soloists performing such incredible and rare works. Bravo UMS and San Fransisco!

Amazing program! I loved every second of it. It was a true demonstration of how modern music is every bit as emotional, beautiful, and enthralling as traditional orchestra repertoire. The Mason Bates piece was stunning, the Copland was incredibly exciting, and I am amazed at how accurate Jeremy Denk was with his elbows and fists! In all seriousness, the Cowell piece was such a pleasant surprise… So beautiful and expressive. Can’t wait for Concert #2!!!

I was absolutely blown away by this performance — Yves Jacques was brilliant in every one of the numerous roles he played in this show. The production was layered with meaning and really made the audience think, but didn’t shove anything in your face. You could take the production at face value — an incredibly engaging story with stunning stage and lighting effects — or delve deeper into the layers of storytelling and metaphor. An absolute win! I only wish more people could have experienced this performance!