French pianist Pascal Rogé is a wood thrush among goldfinches. His burnished interpretations of French pieces move listeners with elegance, style, and thoughtful phrasing. His exquisite recordings of Saint-Saëns' piano concertos are considered by many to be the best on record, so it'll be a treat to hear him perform Saint-Saëns' Fifth Piano Concerto, "Egyptian," live with the RPO. French music bookends the concerto, beginning with Erik Satie's three hypnotic Gymnopédies and ending with Berlioz's indulgent romance, Symphonie Fantastique. Guest conductor James Gaffigan directs.

RPO: Symphonie Fantastique

Thursday, April 30 & Saturday, May 2

Eastman Theatre, 60 Gibbs St.

8 p.m. | $9-$56 | 454-2100