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As far as classical instruments go, the closest you can get to the human voice is the violin and its various string relatives. Music for strings dominates tonight’s program, and we begin with a French Suite by Baroque composer (and violinist) Francois Francoeur. Then the always sonogenic (not to mention photogenic) Ahn Trio brings us a deeply expressive work, Israeli composer Ronn Yedidia’s “Lullaby,” dedicated to the older and vanishing generation of people with whom he was close in his native country. One violin sonata that is routinely co-opted by the cello is Schubert’s “Sonata no. 2 in a;” we’ll hear a spirited performance from cello virtuoso Pieter Wispelwey. We’ll also get a taste of the “classical” Dave Brubeck with his “Regret” for string orchestra and piano (with Dave on the piano, no less). Works by Brahms and Sibelius help round out our selection of musical strings.

One other composer who knew how to use strings to excellent effect was the film composer Bernard Herrmann (who could take a shower and not think of that chilling, percussive string motif after seeing “Psycho?”). Well, today’s his birthday, and we’ll bring our evening to a close with two of his works, “Vertigo” for Orchestra, and his chamber ensemble piece “Souvenir de Voyage.” You may want to keep the lights on just a little bit longer tonight (and stay away from the shower if you can help it).