Hungary's greatest composer Bela Bartok moved to New York during World War II, and he overcame serious health problems to create a musical masterpiece showing off all the instruments of the orchestra in unique and unforgettable style. His Concerto for Orchestra is truly one of the peaks of the 20th century repertoire. Opening the program is Bach's magnificent Prelude and Fugue in D Major in a spectacular large orchestration by Ottorino Respighi.