"East and West Transcended" features the richness of Japanese folk music traditions and their relationship to Western musical language. Esteemed Japanese composer Toru Takemitsu maintained an ever-changing relationship to Japanese folk music and was intrigued by the colorful sound world created by French Impressionist composers. In the early 20th century, the art song genre of France and Germany gave birth to their counterpart in Japan.

Showcasing the program is the world premiere of Splash of Indigo by composer Marty Regan, a dynamic musical work that explores the intersections between Japanese folk and French Impressionist music filtered through a distinct American sensibility. Pianist Viktor Valkov, first prize winner of the New Orleans International Piano Competition (2012), makes a return appearance as guest artist.