Composer Jean Sibelius proclaimed that his Second Symphony was “pure music.” Its stunning emotional range – from lyricism to discord to triumph – traces the struggles, crises, and turning-points experienced in a lifetime. Though the works of Latvian poet, pianist, and composer Lūcija Garūta were banned under Soviet occupation, her only Piano Concerto is a musical response to personal tragedy and the loss of the composer’s niece. This powerful program is filled with passion, catharsis, and hope.