An evening that includes Beethoven's "Symphony No. 7," Mozart's "Violin Concerto No. 2," marking the return of violinist Pip Clarke, and a performance of Gwyneth Walker's "About Leaves" is the perfect way to start the Fall season.

Often combining theatrical elements with instrumental composition, Walker took inspiration from the poems of Robert Frost, including "A Leaf Treader," "Gathering Leaves" and "Nothing Gold Can Stay," to write "About Leaves."

All three movements set out to convey the humor, movement and reflective qualities of Frost's work, starting with the hard work associated with racking and controlling falling leaves and concluding with a piece that addresses the unavoidable fading color that the end of autumn brings.

Solo violinist Pip Clarke returns to the Mission Chamber Orchestra to bring new life to Mozart classics. Last season she performed Mozart concertos twice with the orchestra. Considered a rising star in the international violin scene, Clarke has been touring the world with her instrument from the age of 16 when she debuted on the London stage. She comes back to San Jose to continue her Mozart cycle.

Young musicians will be given a chance to shine at the opening show. The program also will include a performance from the Piedmont Hills High School String Orchestra, playing Wiren's "Serenade For Strings."

To keep tickets reasonably priced, the orchestra looks for creative ways to sustain itself. This season will start with a silent auction at 6:30 p.m. at Le Petit Trianon. Bidding on dozens of high-end items including spa packages, Sharks tickets and an Apple iPod will all benefit the orchestra.

The remaining 2003/2004 season features a holiday opera Dec. 20 & 21, a Valentine's Day performance from Chilean guitarist Rodolfo Tromoso and the return of Pip Clarke in the spring. Collaborative shows with the San Jose State Chorale and Concert Choir as well as a performance with the San Jose Symphonic Choir also are on the calendar.

The Mission Chamber Orchestra starts its season with the Sept. 27 performance at 8 p.m. at Le Petit Trianon, 72 N. 5th Street in downtown San Jose. Tickets are $5 to $17. Call 408.293.6060 or go to www.missionchamber.org for more information.