The New Jersey Symphony showcase classical and contemporary range in a thrilling performance
Music Director Xian Zhang conducted the New Jersey Symphony and the Montclair State University Chorale in four performances of Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony featuring guest vocalists Felicia Moore, Kelley O’Connor, Issachah Savage and Reginald Smith Jr. The performances also featured Colton Conducting Fellow Gregory D. McDaniel conducting Tchaikovsky’s Polonaise from Eugene Onegin and saxophonist Steven Banks joining to perform solo in Billy Childs’ Diaspora. James C. Taylor of NJ Advance Media reviewed the Friday night performance at NJPAC.
Beethoven’s Ninth has been delighting audience for 201 years, Childs’ “Diaspora” for just two. Zhang brought together strong performances of both in one the most rewarding concerts of her tenure here.
James C. Taylor of NJ Advance Media
» Read the full review from NJ Advance Media
Courtney Smith of NJArts.net also reviewed the performance at NJPAC.
Music director Zhang found a fine balance between the profound Beethovenian extremes of drama and tenderness, leading the musicians and The Montclair State University Chorale in a joyous version that was carefully calibrated and symmetrical. And in Billy Childs’ evocative saxophone concerto Diaspora, featuring guest saxophonist Steven Banks, she complemented the work’s vast expressiveness and emotional intensity with spirited musical language.
Courtney Smith of NJArts.net