All you have to say is two words: Scott Piper. And I'll make every effort to be there.

The Youth Orchestras of Fresno knows what a draw the accomplished professional tenor is. Piper wowed audiences in last year's Valentine's-themed "Love Conquers All" fundraiser at Shaghoian Hall. He returns Sunday for a "West Side Story"-themed sequel.

Here's a rundown:

The first "Love Conquers All": Piper made his first visit to Fresno last February for the fundraiser. He and diva Layna Chianakas presented an evening of opera classics, all backed by members of the advanced Youth Philharmonic Orchestra under the baton of Thomas Loewenheim.

This year's installment: Piper will be joined by guest soprano Laura Pedersen, who has performed at Carnegie Hall and with regional opera companies across the country. The pair will begin the concert with duets by Puccini and Verdi, then sing favorites from "West Side Story." The Youth Philharmonic, conducted by Loewenheim, also will play Leonard Bernstein's "Mambo" from the musical.

What makes Piper special? He certainly has great credentials, with a score of credits for opera companies across the country (and in Israel and France), including a recent performance with the Seattle Opera. He's at the point in his career where he's transitioning into what's called the "spinto" repertoire (a "spinto" tenor has a darker tone and heavier weight than its lyric counterpart) with such roles as Calaf in "Turandot," an exciting time for a singer. But beyond just the vocals, Piper has a joyous, infectiously warm demeanor that at last year's concert made clear he loves opera -- and the talented members of the Youth Philharmonic.

What's this I hear about stereo equipment? Last year, writing about the concert, I described Piper's entrance from the back of the auditorium: "He strides down the side aisle and then through the center of the house, voice booming, and as he passes directly in front of my seat, I swear I can actually feel the sound vibrations emanating from him. He's like a human sub-woofer." The Youth Philharmonic picked up on the "sub-woofer" line and is using it in its press material.

What's the Valentine's Day connection? Doors will open early to allow audience members to check out (and salivate at) the extensive pre-Valentine's Day dessert auction, with bids happily taken.

The far from sour truth: A fine orchestra, impressive guest artists, a beautiful hall, lots of premium desserts just a bid away from your tummy -- it's sure to be a sweet evening.

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Concert preview

"Love Conquers All," 7 p.m. Sunday, Shaghoian Hall at Clovis North High, 2770 E. International Ave. youthorchestrasfresno.org (559) 275-6664. $25-$35 adults, free for 18 and under (or $10 for preferred seating).