Yo-Yo Ma “is a musician of immense conscience, a wholeheartedly earnest presence who tends to bring out the best in whatever company he is in” (The New York Times). Sharing the stage with Gustavo Dudamel, Ma brings his sensitive playing to the world-premiere performances of an underwater field recordings-inspired concerto by Puerto Rican composer Angélica Negrón. The collaboration between Negrón and Ma sparked from an experiential creative workshop she facilitated with Ma and the Billion Oyster Project in New York City. Richard Strauss’ tone poems are arguably among some of the most richly orchestrated and strikingly adventurous pieces written for orchestra. Ein Heldenleben (A Hero’s Life) is no exception as it closely follows the composer’s own real-life conflicts, resolutions, and romances along the way through its bold battle music, soaring melodies, and passionate spirit.