About

Eric Jacobsen, conductor
Virginia Symphony Orchestra Chorus

Copland: "The Promise of Living" from The Tender Land
Bernstein: Selections from Candide
Various: Potsdam

Harley Elias, writer
Tanner Porter, arranger and orchestrator
Special thanks to Wasserman Projects for commissioning the book.

Step into a turning point in history — Potsdam, Germany, 1945. The war has ended, but the future hangs in the balance. Truman, Churchill, and Stalin sit across the table, navigating mistrust, determination, and fragile hope as they shape the post-war world.
Amidst the tension of delicate political negotiations, the world leaders bonded over their love of music. Finding Peace at Potsdam brings this fascinating moment to life through powerful storytelling and stirring performances of their beloved classics. Experience the music of Tchaikovsky, Chopin, Kreisler, and more, woven together with insights that reveal the surprising role Hampton Roads played in this pivotal chapter of history.
It's more than a concert — it's an unforgettable journey through music and memory, where history's struggles and triumphs resonate in every note.

These performances are made possible through a generous gift from the Susan Goode Performance Fund.

Co-presented with the Virginia Arts Festival



Celebrating his fifth season, Eric Jacobsen serves as the Virginia Symphony Orchestra's twelfth Music Director, the Macon & Joan Brock Chair. He is also artistic director and co-founder of The Knights, the uniquely adventurous NYC-based chamber orchestra, and Music Director of the Orlando Philharmonic. In addition to conducting, Eric is a dedicated chamber musician (cello) and is a member of Yo-Yo Ma's Silk Road Ensemble.