Rick Steves Symphonic Journey

Rick Steves Symphonic Journey is a concert experience pairing travel expert Rick Steves with the Boulder Symphony led by Maestro Devin Patrick Hughes. It takes place at Grace Commons. Steves acts as a musical tour guide, using his knowledge of European history and culture to introduce each work. The program “travels” from the U.S. to eight European countries through music and storytelling. The orchestra performs stirring 19th-century Romantic-era anthems by composers including Grieg, Smetana, Strauss, Saint-Saëns, Elgar, Wagner, and Verdi. Video imagery from Steves’ public television series adds a cinematic layer to the performance. Each piece spotlights a different nationality and the patriotic spirit music can evoke. The finale features Beethoven’s “Ode to Joy,” honoring Europe’s “United in Diversity” motto and themes of freedom. This event is ideal for classical music lovers, Rick Steves fans, and anyone who enjoys culture-rich storytelling with live symphonic performance.