A new season begins with Dvořák’s Ninth Symphony under the baton of Principal Conductor Peter Oundjian. With its inspired use of Native American musical rhythms and African American spiritual influences, the beloved “New World Symphony” heralded a new dawn for 20th century American music and remains one of the most iconic compositions of all time.

In a rare appearance not to be missed, pianist Jean-Yves Thibaudet lends his prodigious talents to Gershwin’s Concerto in F — featuring quick, pulsating first and third movements that represent the young, enthusiastic spirit of American life, and a bluesy middle section, evoking a sound as American as Broadway. Berlioz’s Roman Carnival is an exhilarating, nine-minute joyride, equal parts wild and mercurial, making it a fitting opener to usher in a new season of symphonic bliss at Boettcher Concert Hall.