The composers of the Romantic period are as numerous as stars. This concert samples this era with works by three masters: Richard Wagner, Sergei Rachmaninoff and Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky. The Overture to Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg highlights nine themes and motives from the eponymous opera representing human characters and creative concepts (ideals, love and spring) and has become a popular concert work. Rachmaninoff’s Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini borrows from the violinist-composer’s 24 Caprices. This is not only Rachmaninoff’s last work for piano and orchestra, but also his last work that truly celebrates pianistic virtuosity. Tchaikovsky’s music not only reflects his tragic life, but also epitomizes the pathos of the 19th century and life’s vicissitudes, finding resonance in both performers and listeners.