UPDATE: The New Jersey Symphony has captivated audiences with a stunning performance featuring the works of American composers Florence Price and George Gershwin at the State Theater in New Brunswick on October 22, 2023. Soloist Michelle Cann showcased her extraordinary talent, delivering an unforgettable rendition of Price’s groundbreaking Piano Concerto in One Movement.
The concert kicked off with Cann’s powerful interpretation of the 18-minute concerto, which was lost for decades before being reconstructed in 2009. Price, a pioneering Black female composer, wrote this evocative piece in 1934, and Cann’s performance revealed the rich dialogue between classical and jazz influences, with her bold tone echoing throughout the theater.
Following Price, Cann seamlessly transitioned into Gershwin’s iconic “Rhapsody in Blue,” a piece that resonates deeply with urban American life. Her vigorous playing style amplified both the urgency and sentiment of Gershwin’s work, leaving a lasting impression on the audience. The energy in the theater was palpable, as Cann’s encore—a virtuosic rendition of Rachmaninoff’s Prelude in C sharp minor—further demonstrated her exceptional skill.
Guest conductor Tito Munoz made his debut with the orchestra, guiding the musicians with a dynamic presence. The New Jersey Symphony’s performance was characterized by a spirited energy, even if it didn’t hit every note perfectly. As one audience member remarked, “It had swagger, which is what Gershwin is all about.”
However, the concert also included the second-ever performance of Carlos Simon’s co-commissioned symphonic suite, “Zodiac,” which, while pleasant, lacked the same impactful resonance as the earlier pieces. With a duration of 22 minutes, the suite explores the twelve astrological signs but may have struggled to shine following the powerful concertos.
The concert concluded with a spirited rendition of Aaron Copland’s “Billy the Kid,” bringing the audience back to a nostalgic celebration of American music.
This weekend’s concert not only highlighted the New Jersey Symphony’s commitment to American compositions but also offered a glimpse into its future. Renowned violinist Joshua Bell was in town, marking his upcoming role as the NJS Principal Guest Conductor next May. Bell recently performed a stirring rendition of a lesser-known violin concerto by Thomas de Hartmann, a Ukrainian-born composer, hinting at exciting prospects for future performances.
The New Jersey Symphony’s ability to blend history, culture, and contemporary artistry in one exhilarating evening reinforces its significant role in the American music landscape. As audiences left the State Theater, it was clear that this performance would not soon be forgotten—an urgent reminder of the power of music to connect and inspire.