Performing without a conductor is an impressive feat for any large ensemble, but the boundless intuition and near-telepathic accuracy of the NOI Philharmonic will be tested with a program that embraces a broad array of form. The program includes the celebratory and boisterous Symphony No. 97 by the Austrian "Father of the Symphony," Joseph Haydn. The orchestra offers an underheard treat with Italian-American composer Gian Carlo Menotti's cinematically lyrical Suite from Sebastian, a project that aligns him comfortably in Haydn's camp. We balance out the evening with an exciting work for percussion. Stravinsky’s mesmerizing ballet Danses concertantes appears in the first portion of this concert as well as Carlos Chavez’s popular Toccata for Percussion Instruments.