NSO—Leonard Slatkin: Returning Love

Leonard Slatkin returns to conduct the National Symphony Orchestra in a concert about musical memory, affection, and artistic connection across generations. The program begins with Slatkin’s *Schubertiade*, inspired by the intimate gatherings where Franz Schubert and his friends performed music together, followed by Joan Tower’s *Love Returns*, an NSO co-commission written for saxophonist Steven Banks.

Rachmaninoff’s Symphony No. 3 concludes the evening, moving from its melancholy opening through the composer’s richly Russian musical language to an intense, frenetic finale. Together, the works trace a conversation between composers of the past and contemporary artists responding to their legacy.

When: Saturday, October 24, 2026

Showtime: 8:00 p.m.

Venue: The Music Center at Strathmore

Conductor: Leonard Slatkin, former Music Director of the National Symphony Orchestra

Orchestra: National Symphony Orchestra

Program: Leonard Slatkin, *Schubertiade*; Joan Tower, *Love Returns*; Sergei Rachmaninoff, Symphony No. 3

Featured artistic connection: Joan Tower’s *Love Returns* was commissioned by the National Symphony Orchestra for saxophonist Steven Banks.

Tickets: $22–$119

Run time: Not specified

Ages: Not specified

Dining: Allegro Kitchen offers à la carte dining, and the Prelude Buffet generally provides a multi-course meal with reserved seating. Buffet reservations open on the first day of the preceding month, with preferred pricing for advance orders. Bars operate before the concert and during intermission.

Food and beverages: Outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the venue.

Accessibility: Accessibility information is available through Strathmore’s accessibility services. The venue states that it works to reduce barriers so all patrons can enjoy its programs.

Important note: The page states that this event is not presented by Strathmore and that its tickets are excluded from Strathmore’s refund and exchange policy.