John Morris Russell, conductor of the famed Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, returns to conduct the opening concert of the National Orchestral Institute and Festival.  This rousing concert of American favorites features the music of John Williams, including hit scores to movies such as Star Wars: The Force Awakes, Harry Potter, and Schindler's List alongside works by Aaron Copland and Leonard Bernstein.  

The National Orchestral Institute and Festival brings together aspiring orchestral musicians from across the country for a month of dynamic music-making and professional exploration. Chosen by a rigorous, cross-country audition process, these young artists present passionate and awe-inspiring performances of adventuresome repertoire at The Clarice and in the community.