Photos: Yo-Yo Ma in Concert

In one of the final concerts of the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra's 144th season, internationally acclaimed cellist and philanthropist Yo-Yo Ma performed with the orchestra for the first time in more than ten years.

Ma's performance of Edward Elgar's Cello Concerto was met with a standing ovation and multiple curtain calls, before he brought his cello back out—to the roar of the crowd—for an encore of music by Pablo Casals. Called "breathtakingly stellar" (KDHX), Ma's performance was the highlight of the SLSO's gala, the biggest night of the season. Preceding the concert, guests enjoyed dinner and drinks in one of two Stifel Theatre ballrooms, and the night concluded with drinks and dancing, with live music provided by Griffin and the Gargoyles.

In total, the gala raised $1.135 million for the SLSO's artistic, education, and community programs.

SLSO Music Director Stéphane Denève introduced Ma, a personal friend, following a performance of Claude Debussy's La Mer, a three-movement suite that depicts the sea.

Photos by Virginia Harold

Yo-Yo Ma and SLSO Music Director Stéphane Denève wave to the sold-out house at Stifel Theatre.

The concert began with a performance of Claude Debussy's La Mer.

Yo-Yo Ma, performing with the SLSO for the first time in ten years, performed Edward Elgar's Cello Concerto.

Ma smiles with gala co-chairs Penny Pennington, left, and Jo Ann Taylor Kindle.

Mel Pashea and Janice Seele dance at the gala after party.

Thomas and Katie Bloom enjoy music by Griffin and the Gargoyles at the gala after party.

Stifel Theatre was sold out for the gala concert featuring Yo-Yo Ma.

Griffin and the Gargoyles provided live music at the gala after party.

Music Director Stéphane Denève and gala co-chair Penny Pennington lead a toast at the after party.

Stanley and Arlene Browne at the gala after party.

SLSO violinists Xiaoxiao Qiang, left, and Jessie Chen perform Debussy's La Mer.

Branko and Gina Marusic at the gala after party.