Tonight was my first big-time pro orchestra experience. I'm in Chicago for World Projects International with my schools (Murray State University) orchestra and we had the experience of going to Orchestra Hall to watch the CSO play Sibelius' Karelia Suite, Grieg Piano Concerto (with Kissen), and Stravinsky's Petrushka. Low brass was pretty miniscule on the first 2 pieces but on the Stravinsky, it was great! Mr. Pokorny's solo was phenomenal. The only thing that would have made it better would have been the presence of Charlie Vernon!
Regardless, even though it was a low-brass packed program, it was an awesome first experience!