The All-Star Orchestra gives you a front row seat to the world’s greatest music, performed by top players chosen from over 30 great American orchestras, and conducted by Gerard Schwarz. The programs feature complete performances of popular masterpieces and world premieres of new works by leading American composers. Filmed in High-Definition with multiple cameras in and around the orchestra, the All-Star Orchestra celebrates the symphonic experience in the 21st c. Strauss’ orchestral autobiography from 1899, Ein Heldenleben, is a unique documentary in music, scored for extra-large orchestra – a sonic spectacular, and a showcase for the All-Star musicians. In this highly pictorial music, the listener follows the “Hero” as he asserts his independence, falls in love, confronts his critics, engages in battle, creates a legacy of peace, and eventually comes to life’s end. (Program 11: A Hero’s Life in Music) Mozart’s magical “Posthorn Serenade” is paired with the world-premiere of Samuel Jones’ Violin Concerto with Anne Akiko Meyers performing on the legendary Vieuxtemps Guarneri del Gesu violin. This rare event showcases the collaboration between composer, soloist, and conductor in bringing a brand-new concerto to life. (Program 12: Mozart and a World Premiere)