To Have and to Hold

The Austin Symphony Orchestra brings To Have and to Hold to Long Center's Dell Hall on Friday, October 23, and again on Sunday, October 25. It's part of their Masterworks Series, and the whole thing is built around love and partnership, told through a mix of music and narration.

At the center of the program is Leonard Bernstein's Trouble in Tahiti, a thoughtful and often humorous look at marriage. Around it, the orchestra has curated a selection of works that touch on celebration, tradition, and intimacy. Each piece offers a different perspective—some playful, some reflective—with narration guiding you through the experience. It's less of a standard concert and more of a guided tour through the different ways we talk about love.

Leading the way is Jamie Bernstein, Leonard's daughter, who takes on both directing and narrating. She's joined on piano by Alex Maynegre-Torra, with Peter Bay conducting. Having her at the helm adds a personal layer to the evening, especially with her father's work at the core of the program.

There are two chances to catch it: Friday, October 23, at 8 PM and Sunday, October 25, at 2 PM. The Sunday matinee is underwritten by Don Kotrady. Both performances are at Long Center's Dell Hall, 701 West Riverside Drive.