CCM Philharmonia Delivers 'Midlife Crisis' Concert

Acclaimed performance features Strauss' 'Don Quixote' and Brahms' 'Symphony No. 4'

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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The University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music (CCM) Philharmonia presented a compelling concert on February 20, 2026, pairing Richard Strauss' 'Don Quixote' and Johannes Brahms' 'Symphony No. 4 in E minor.' The program, titled 'Midlife Crisis,' explored themes of age, identity, and artistic reinvention through these two masterworks.

Why it matters

The concert showcased the exceptional talent of the CCM Philharmonia, demonstrating the ensemble's commitment to ambitious programming and high-quality performance. It provided a rare opportunity for the audience to experience two monumental symphonic works in a single evening, solidifying the Philharmonia's position as a leading orchestra in the region.

The details

The performance featured guest artists Rebecca Barnes, viola, and Jonathan Lee, cello, both CCM alumni. Lee embodied the character of Don Quixote, while Barnes portrayed his loyal squire, Sancho Panza. The orchestra, under the direction of Mark Gibson, skillfully navigated the episodic nature of Strauss' 'Don Quixote' and the complex orchestral textures and emotional intensity of Brahms' 'Symphony No. 4.'

  • The concert was held on February 20, 2026.
  • The CCM Philharmonia's performance was described as a 'high-end buffet' of symphonic repertoire.

The players

CCM Philharmonia

The University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music's student orchestra, known for its ambitious programming and high-quality performances.

Rebecca Barnes

A violist with the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra and a CCM alumna, who portrayed the character of Sancho Panza in the performance.

Jonathan Lee

The principal cellist with the Dayton Philharmonic and a CCM alumnus, who embodied the character of Don Quixote in the performance.

Mark Gibson

The conductor who led the CCM Philharmonia in the performance, praised for maintaining a strong pulse and navigating the complex structures of the works.

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What’s next

The concert's success has set a high bar for future CCM Philharmonia performances, and the ensemble is expected to continue its ambitious programming and collaborations with established artists.

The takeaway

The 'Midlife Crisis' concert demonstrated the CCM Philharmonia's commitment to exploring the emotional depths of classical music, providing a thought-provoking experience for the audience and showcasing the exceptional talent of the student musicians.