A conversation with Jacques Lacombe
The 2013–14 season is Jacques Lacombe’s fourth as music director. The Orchestra’s leader reflects on his first three seasons with the NJSO.
How has your relationship with NJSO patrons grown?
It’s been really exciting [to find] the connection so many people have with the NJSO. Our patrons really feel a sense of ownership, that this is their orchestra. That strong, faithful commitment from our communities is a great inspiration for me. I’ve found that every concert hall has its own personality, its own aura. That’s very stimulating to me—we can perform a piece of music at each of our venues, and each time, the audience [inspires] a fresh performance.
What have you learned about the NJSO?
I already knew that the orchestra was really good, but the flexibility of the orchestra is incredible—to be excellent in many different styles is rare. The musicians’ ability to grasp and integrate new, complex pieces and to make them feel natural is something we should be proud of.
What has inspired your NJSO programs and collaborations?
I believe any orchestra can be a model for and driving force within its community—it’s about connecting. Because the NJSO is a state orchestra, I want to perform music by New Jersey composers and collaborate with many institutions throughout the state. The idea behind the “Man & Nature” Winter Festivals is to connect what we do on the concert stage to our daily lives. It’s been a very rich experience, and we have included groups from our communities, including theater companies, choirs and environmental organizations.
What has been your favorite discovery about New Jersey?
I’m a foodie, so I have quite a few good restaurants shops. I fell in love with the mortadella from Hoboken—it’s so good it’s almost a sin!
What is the best thing an NJSO patron has said to you?
I create programs that combine beloved and well-established repertoire with new discoveries, and many audience members have thanked me for introducing them to new music. That’s one of the best compliments I’ve received.