In May, the orchestra auctioned off a similar package on eBay for over C$1,000. Bidding started at C$300 and included a pair of concert tickets, limousine service and a backstage pass for the same concert.
The September 13 performance at Winspear Centre marks the cellist's first appearance with the orchestra since 1992, and set a sales record for the ESO, selling more than 1,800 tickets in under three months. On its program are Tchaikovsky's Romeo and Juliet Fantasy Overture, Kabalevsky's Cello Concerto No. 1 and Brahms's Trio No. 1.