New Jersey Symphony begins its 104th season with solid reviews
The New Jersey Symphony kickstarted its 2026–27 season with three spectacular performances of Beethoven’s “Emperor” Piano Concerto and Schubert’s “Great” Symphony in Princeton, Newark and New Brunswick, with guest favorite George Li making his fourth appearance with the orchestra to perform solo in the former. James C. Taylor of NJ Advance Media reviewed the performance in Newark, saying this about the Symphony’s collaboration with Li.
Eliciting a measured, compact tone from the Steinway, Li experimented with a slightly syncopated rhythm to Beethoven’s flowing melodies. Zhang and the orchestra complemented this with assured tempi, always there to catch Li whenever he pushed too far. The result sounded improvisatory and exciting, then Li and the orchestra segued beautifully into a rousing rendition of the ebullient third movement “Rondo.”
James C. Taylor of NJ Advance Media
» Read the full review from NJ Advance Media
Courtney Smith of NJArts.net was also at the Newark performance to review that concert, praising Li’s performance with the Symphony.
Li played with vigorous energy and forward drive. Even the lightest ornaments in the highest octaves were not delicate, whispering suggestions. He dug deep into the keys, yet his sound was never heavy or blurry. His technique was clean and agile.
Courtney Smith of NJArts.net
» Read the full review from NJArts.net
Danielle Sahr of Seen and Heard International also reviewed the Newark performance.
Guest soloist George Li similarly gave a sterling and intelligent reading of Beethoven’s ‘Emperor’ Piano Concerto. He not only matched Zhang’s tireless energy, but his approach also drew out the soloistic aspects of the orchestral parts even more enticingly (especially in passages he played alone with timpani). Together conductor, pianist and orchestral musicians created a fresh experience of Beethoven’s best-known piano concerto.
Danielle Sahr of Seen and Heard International
» Read the full review from Seen and Heard International
Heidi Thompson of Jersey Shore Style was at the first of the performances in Princeton to review that concert.
Watching Li perform was a highlight. His fingers flew across the keyboard at astonishing speed, with remarkable precision and control. His expressive playing in the quieter passages allowed the music to shift naturally between bold, energetic moments and more lyrical interludes.
Heidi Thompson of Jersey Shore Style