The Auburn Symphony Orchestra presents “Great Romantics” at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 18, and 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 19, at the Auburn Performing Arts Center, 700 E. Main in Auburn.

Auburn Symphony Orchestra welcomes back pianist Craig Sheppard for Liszt’s Piano Concerto No. 2—an incredible combination of a great composer of the Romantic era and a soloist up to the task of doing him justice. Originally, Franz Liszt enjoyed a reputation as an amazing piano virtuoso, and was considered by many of his contemporaries as the greatest pianist of all time.

Sheppard’s career has been extensive and brilliant, “undoubted virtuosity and lyrical invention of the highest order.” Professor of piano at the University of Washington for nearly 20 years, he travels worldwide to teach and perform, including 11 trips to east Asia since 2002.

This is Sheppard’s fourth appearance with the Auburn Symphony, previously having performed works by Rachmaninov, Beethoven and Chopin. Bring a Valentine date or come on your own to help us celebrate this romantic program.

Prior to the performance, an extended pre-concert lecture will be presented by Conductor Kershaw and KUOW host Dave Beck focusing on the story behind the composers and their music. Saturday’s pre-concert lecture begins at 6:45 p.m.; Sunday’s 1:45 p.m.

The concerts are sponsored in large part by the city of Auburn. Founded in 1996, the fully-professional Auburn Symphony Orchestra is led by Stewart Kershaw, internationally-renowned conductor and recently retired music director of the Pacific Northwest Ballet Orchestra. For more information, please visit www.auburnsymphony.org.

Reserved seats are $34 for adults, $27 for seniors and $10 for students. Call 253-887-7777 or purchase online at auburnsymphony.org