Bellingham Symphony Orchestra Opens 51st Season with ‘Star-Cross’d Dreams’

Led by Music Director Yaniv Attar, the 3 p.m. concert explores the many ways music can evoke longing, passion, fantasy, and desire. The program features BSO Concertmaster and acclaimed violinist Dawn Posey as soloist, alongside the whimsical artistry of Shoestring Circus.

“Star-Cross’d Dreams invites audiences into a world where music and imagination meet,” says Attar. “From the intimate lyricism of Chausson’s Poème to the dazzling virtuosity of Saint-Saëns and the hypnotic build of Ravel’s Boléro, this is music that’s meant to be felt as much as heard.”

The concert opens with Mel Bonis’ Bourrée, followed by two contrasting works for violin and orchestra: Ernest Chausson’s lush and emotionally charged Poème and Camille Saint-Saëns’ brilliant Introduction and Rondo Capriccioso, featuring Posey.

[Photo of Posey by Stacee Sledge]

After intermission, the orchestra turns to the sensuous sound world of Maurice Ravel with Daphnis and Chloé Suite No. 2, culminating in the iconic Boléro. As Ravel’s endlessly repeating melody and insistent rhythm gradually gather momentum, Shoestring Circus performers will bring the music to life through acrobatics and movement.

“Pairing Boléro with live circus artistry gives audiences a chance to experience this familiar piece in an entirely new way,” says BSO Executive Director Gail Ridenour. “It’s a celebration of the unexpected — and a perfect way to begin our 51st season.”

The 84-minute program offers a wide-ranging introduction to the BSO’s 2026–2027 season, Legends & Sonnets, which explores stories, myths, poetry, and the human imagination through six concerts. The season continues November 22 with Longing in Exile and includes performances featuring internationally acclaimed artists including violinist Gil Shaham and cellist Amit Peled.

[Photo by Alex Mayes]