February Concert Pairs the Schumanns and Mendelssohn in a Musical
Love Letter to the Romantic Era
Sedona, AZ — December 20, 2025 — As the month of love begins, the Sedona Symphony continues its 2025–2026 season with The Romantics, a sweeping and emotionally charged program celebrating classical music’s most passionate power couple — Clara and Robert Schumann.
This concert, held Sunday, February 1, 2026 at 3:00 pm, places Clara and Robert Schumann side-by-side in a rare and intimate musical pairing. Clara’s radiant Three Romances is newly re-imagined for orchestra by Sedona Symphony Artistic Director William C. White. The Symphony’s own Concertmaster Sarah Schreffler brings fresh color and depth to Clara’s sublime lyricism on her violin.
Robert Schumann’s profound Cello Concerto follows, performed by rising star Gabriel Martins, whose rich, expressive sound has captivated audiences from Carnegie Hall to Wigmore Hall. Though internationally acclaimed, Martins shares a personal connection to Sedona — his father resides in the community — making this appearance a homecoming as well as a highlight.
The program culminates in Mendelssohn’s Symphony No. 3, “Scottish,” a powerful musical travelogue inspired by the misty highlands, rugged coastlines, and poetic grandeur of Scotland. From windswept drama to lyrical introspection, the work is both epic and emotionally immersive — a perfect counterpart to the Schumanns’ intimate intensity.
The Music at a Glance
Clara Schumann – Three Romances (orch. William C. White)
Originally written for violin and piano, Clara’s Three Romances shimmer with longing, elegance, and emotional nuance in Maestro Will’s repacking of the piece for our entire orchestra. Ranging from tender pathos to swirling energy, these miniature masterpieces reflect the voice of one of the 19th century’s most extraordinary artists — a composer whose brilliance rivaled her legendary piano career.
Robert Schumann – Cello Concerto in A minor
Deeply introspective and poetic, this concerto unfolds as a continuous emotional journey rather than a traditional showcase. Schumann weaves recurring themes across its movements to create a unified narrative — sometimes meditative, sometimes fevered — culminating in a triumphant and deeply affecting conclusion.
Felix Mendelssohn – Symphony No. 3, “Scottish”
Inspired by Mendelssohn’s travels through Scotland, this symphony captures stormy seas, ancient ruins, and romantic landscapes through sweeping melodies and dramatic contrasts. Performed without pauses between movements, the piece feels like one continuous cinematic arc — atmospheric, imaginative, and powerful.
Guest Soloist: Gabriel Martins, cello
Praised for his “rich, warm” and “mesmerizing” tone, Brazilian-American cellist Gabriel Martins is one of today’s most exciting and ascendent artists. Winner of the Sphinx Gold Medal and Concert Artists Guild Grand Prize, he has performed on major stages across the globe and released acclaimed recordings of the complete Bach Cello Suites. A graduate of USC and the New England Conservatory, Martins performs on a rare 1690 Francesco Ruggieri cello and brings both technical brilliance and emotional depth to every performance.
About Maestro William C. White
Appointed Artistic Director and Conductor in 2025, William C. White is known for his bold musical vision, fresh interpretations, and dynamic connection with audiences. His approach balances deep respect for tradition with a modern sensibility that makes classical music feel immediate and alive. His leadership has infused the Sedona Symphony with renewed energy, innovative programming, and expanded audience engagement.
About Sedona Symphony
Founded in 2005, the Sedona Symphony is a professional regional orchestra dedicated to bringing world-class classical music to Northern Arizona. Known for its artistic excellence, adventurous programming, and community focus, the Symphony presents dynamic concerts that connect music lovers with extraordinary performers in one of the most inspiring landscapes in the world.
Special Pre- and Post-Concert Experiences
- Pre-Concert Talk (2:00 PM) — Maestro Will hosts an engaging conversation in the hall before each concert, offering context, stories, and musical insights to deepen the listening experience.
- Post-Concert Cocktails at The Den (after the performance) — Keep the evening going just a short drive away from the concert hall. Join Maestro Will and Symphony musicians at The Den at Mountain Modern Sedona for themed cocktails and light bites inspired by the evening’s music.
Event Details
- What: Sedona Symphony presents The Romantics
- When: Sunday, February 1, 2026 | 3:00 PM
- Where: Sedona Performing Arts Center
- Tickets: Starting at $40 | Available now at www.sedonasymphony.org
