Traversing that important divide between Romanticism and Modernism, this program delves deep into the worlds of William Walton and Gustav Mahler. Walton’s Viola Concerto has long been a landmark work ever since its premiere, with the solo instrument projecting thoughtful contemplation and genuine warmth—and at times, even humor with a distinct British touch—onto the world at large. Mahler’s Symphony No.1 contained many programmatic and extra-musical influences during its long gestation period. The finished work, however, boils down to chronicling an artist’s arduous journey from self-awakening through spirited struggle to eventual victory.