American symphonic classics will be performed by the orchestra under the direction of Christian Knapp and pianist Theodosia Ntoku. The program includes dances from Leonard Bernstein's "West Side Story" and George Gershwin's "Rhapsody in Blue." The program unites two works that have become important symbols of American musical culture in the 20th century. At the center are the symphonic dances from Leonard Bernstein's "West Side Story" and George Gershwin's "Rhapsody in Blue." Bernstein's music grew out of the story of two youth gangs in New York and the relationships between people on different sides of the conflict. The dances retain the energy of the stage original, sharp contrasts, and dance rhythms. The piano part in Gershwin's composition is performed by Greek pianist Theodosia Ntoku. "Rhapsody in Blue" has become one of the most recognizable works of American music: it blends classical principles with blues intonation, jazz pulsation, and freedom of expression. The orchestra is conducted by Christian Knapp, a conductor from the United States.