Bozeman Symphony Presents Bohemian Fire on October 10 & 11

BOZEMAN, Mont. – The Bozeman Symphony will ignite the Willson Auditorium with Bohemian Fire on October 10 and 11, featuring the Montana premiere of Jennifer Higdon’s luminous Cello Concerto, performed by acclaimed cellist and returning audience favorite, Julian Schwarz. Conducted by Bozeman Symphony’s Music Director, Norman Huynh, the expansive program explores unity, resilience, and passion through music spanning generations and continents. 

The concert opens with Valerie Coleman’s Umoja – Anthem of Unity, a powerful celebration of community and togetherness. Higdon’s Cello Concerto follows, showcasing Schwarz’s lyrical artistry and extraordinary technical command.  

“Julian [Schwarz] has an incredible sound,” said composer Jennifer Higdon, “and I really wanted to show off his playing.” 

Higdon’s preparation for composing the work embraced a study of many masterpieces for the cello: “The repertoire has an incredible history, from Bach to the Dvořák concerto, and it all has something to give.” The composer and the soloist emailed each other, maintaining contact through the composing process: “That’s an advantage Beethoven never had!” Higdon said.  

Grammy-nominated cellist Julian Schwarz has been heralded from a young age as a cellist destined to rank among the greatest of the 21st century. His powerful tone, effortless virtuosity, and extraordinarily broad color palette are hallmarks of his style. Schwarz previously performed with the Bozeman Symphony and returns to Bozeman for this special performance. 

The program concludes with Antonín Dvořák’s dramatic and passionate Symphony No. 7 in D minor, a sweeping work filled with intensity, lyricism, and Czech-inspired character. 

Performances will take place Saturday, Oct. 10, at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, Oct. 11, at 2:30 p.m. at the Willson Auditorium, 404 W. Main St. in downtown Bozeman. 

These performances are made possible through the generous support of sponsors Bob & Donna Ritchie, Bruce & Kimberlie Jodar, Prof. Rob Maher & Ms. Lynn Peterson-Maher, Dr. Jeffrey Barish & Dr. Elaine Best, Keith & Lisa Reed, and Mark & Lori Rosolowsky. 

Tickets start at $33 for adults, with discounted student tickets available. Purchase tickets at www.bozemansymphony.org/bohemian-fire, or call (406) 585-9774. Tickets will also be available at the door, subject to availability. 

 
September 17, 2026  
Contact: Robin Fedock 
Office: (406) 585-9774  
robin@bozemansymphony.org