The New Jersey Symphony kicks off its 101st season with power and fanfare

Oct 17, 2023

The New Jersey Symphony began its 101st season with performances of works from Valerie Coleman, William Grant Still, Duke Ellington and Antonín Dvořák on October 14 & 15 at Newark and New Brunswick with guest conductor Robert Spano and guest performers Aaron Diehl and the Aaron Diehl Trio. James C. Taylor of NJ Advance Media reviewed the opening night performance at NJPAC.

Spano was an assured presence at the podium, the orchestra sounded prepared and at ease throughout the night. The program, titled “Ellington & Dvořák: New Worlds,” was diverse and smartly curated; and thanks to Spano and the Garden State musicians, it was largely delightful.

James C. Taylor of NJ Advance Media

» Read the full review from NJ Advance Media

The Mommy Avenger was also there to blog the entirety of the opening night festivities.

They spoke about the great work the NJ Symphony is doing to bring musical training, experiences, and understanding throughout the state and particularly to those in circumstances less likely to receive such training. Some members of the orchestra even spend their intermission during certain events at the edge of the stage answering questions and interacting with the audience ... During the first performance of the NJ Symphony’s 101st season, the Emmy Awards announced that the NJ Symphony’s PBS broadcast “Art is Essential” won one of their coveted awards. There is a lot of good coming from this organization.

The Mommy Avenger

» Read the full blog from The Mommy Avenger