Is there a symphony as popular as Dvořák’s New World ? If you know this piece, come experience it again. If you don’t, you have got to hear it. This UW Symphony season-opening performance is Thursday, October 9, at 7:30 p.m. in the Buchanan Center Concert Hall. Why is the music so popular? Dvořák left Prague and settled in New York from 1892 to 1895. He immersed himself in what he considered American folk music. His goal? Creating classical music with a truly American flair. His success is obvious: the Symphony No. 9, From the New World , and the American String Quartet. Whether the melodies are more American than Bohemian can be argued, but they are certainly folk-like. And his symphonic treatment is absolutely unsurpassed. What do you program with such a blockbuster? Since New World refers to all the Americas, UWSO Music Director Michael Griffith chose works by a Mexican and a Brazilian: Arturo Márquez’ Danzón No. 2 and the Guitar Concerto by Heitor Villa-Lobos. Inspired by Cuban and Mexican danzón salon dances, Danzón is fun and electrifying. Márquez’ father was a mariachi musician, and you’ll hear a bit of that influence, too – especially in some of the trumpet writing. Find it on YouTube, in an incredible performance with Gustavo Dudamel leading the Simón Bolívar Symphony Orchestra of Venezuela. When Dr. Griffith last conducted in Goiânia, Brazil—his third trip there—he met the classical guitarist Eduardo Meirinhos. One thing they discussed about was his love of the Villa-Lobos concerto. It’s a fascinating piece, and the UWSO is so happy to bring to you. And if you enjoy Dr. Meirinhos performance of the concerto, he’s also offering a free solo recital on Sunday the 12 th at 3:00. We don’t hear much classical guitar in Laramie, so don’t miss that opportunity! Tickets are available online, by phone at 307-766-6666, or at the BCPA Box Office. UWSO’s opening night fall concert often is very full,  so don’t wait to get your From the New World tickets. The 10/12 recital is free.