February is the ultimate month for romance and the NHSO is celebrating by playing the works of music’s most romantic composer Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. William Boughton conducts an all-Tchaikovsky concert on Thursday, February 23, 7:30pm, at Woolsey Hall. Indulge in a winter daydream with Tchaikovsky’s Symphony no. 1 and his Violin Concerto featuring rising star, violinist Chad Hoopes.

Although Tchaikovsky experienced great successes throughout his career, much of his life was plagued by periods of deep depression. Both works, written at the height of his despair, are vastly influenced by Russian folk melodies and express the blend of anguish and joy that became the hallmark of his style. Violinist Chad Hoopes is sure to dazzle audiences in the Violin Concerto, considered to be one of the most technically difficult violin works.

At 17 years old, CHAD HOOPES is quickly becoming a household name in the symphonic world. Since winning first price at the Menuhin International Violin Competition (Young Artist Division) in 2008, Chad has appeared with major orchestras worldwide including the San Francisco, Utah and Pittsburgh symphonies. Critics have praised his “inspiring blend of emotional expression and technical ease,” and described his mastery as “way beyond his years.” His virtuosity has been featured on the CBS Early Show, on NPR, and on PBS’s From the Top: Live at Carnegie Hall. Chad is the second of the NHSO’s New Generation Artists performing this season; the NHSO’s New Generation Artist’s program fosters outstanding young American talent.

Tickets ($10-65) can be purchased at 203.865.0831 x10 or www.NewHavenSymphony.org.