Written after a trek to Holyrood Palace in Edinburgh, Mendelssohn’s Third Symphony sought inspiration from the now decayed chapel where Queen Mary of Scotland was crowned. Opening with a dark thunderstorm, the piece also explores struggles of love before capping off with a lively Scottish folk dance. Technically demanding and full of virtuosic flair, Stamitz’s Viola Concerto in D is brought to life by trailblazing soloist Jordan Bak. The concert opens with a composition exploring the themes of immigration, hope, and humanity.