Santa Monica Symphony presents: Voices in Dialogue

Trio Azura joins SMS to celebrate Beethoven with his Triple Concerto, paired with the brilliance and momentum of his Second Symphony. The year 2027 marks 200 years since Beethoven’s death, a moment of reflection across the music world on the depth and range of his creative voice. This program explores two very different aspects of his musical thinking. Symphony No. 2 shows Beethoven at a moment of expansion and discovery, where energy, structure, and forward motion define his symphonic language. The Triple Concerto offers a contrasting perspective, shaped by collaboration and exchange, where three soloists and orchestra enter into an ongoing musical conversation. Together, these works reflect Beethoven’s unique ability to create music as interaction, balance, and shared expression. Program: Ludwig van Beethoven, Symphony No. 2 in D Major, Op. 36 (1802) —Intermission— Ludwig van Beethoven, Concerto for Violin, Cello, and Piano in C Major, Op. 56 (1804) with Trio Azura: Duncan McDougall, violin Yejin Hong, cello Yanfeng (Tony) Bai, piano ------------------------------ About Trio Azura Trio Azura is quickly emerging as one of today's most promising young ensembles, characterized by “intelligence and imagination” and “profound emotion” (Gramaphone). They are currently the Ensemble-in-Residence at the Colburn School, where they formed in 2022. Most recently, Trio Azura was named a winner of the 2025 Young Concert Artists Susan Wadsworth International Auditions and appointed YCA Jacobs Fellows, becoming the organization’s first Ensemble-in-Residence. Trio Azura consists of Canadian violinist Duncan McDougall, South Korean cellist Yejin Hong, and Chinese pianist Yanfeng (Tony) Bai. Although they come from different backgrounds, their unique perspectives are a constant source of inspiration. In 2024, the Trio won the Grand Prize, Gold Medal, Lift Every Voice prize, and Horszowksi Trio Prize at the 51st Fischoff National Chamber Music Competition. They are also prize winners at the Schoenfeld International String Competition in Harbin, China. ------------------------------- Parking: Limited free parking is available on campus, and street parking is available in the surrounding neighborhood. Because parking may fill quickly, guests are encouraged to arrive early. ------------------------------- This concert is free as part of the Santa Monica Symphony’s commitment to presenting accessible performances for the community, and we warmly welcome donations to support future programs. Please note this ticket does not guarantee late entry, as seating is open and first-come, first-served. We strongly recommend arriving early. Doors open at 6:00 PM.