Pasadena Symphony Concert to Star Pianist George Li and Conductor Kensho Watanabe

The thriving cultural scene of Pasadena will come to life with the esteemed Pasadena Symphony and Pops' performance, titled "Beethoven Emperor," slotted for a dual presentation on Saturday, January 27. The spectacular event is scheduled at 2 p.m. and again at 8 p.m. within the resplendent Ambassador Auditorium located at 131 S. St. John Ave., Pasadena.

Stellar Musical Lineup

The afternoon and evening concerts will see the harmonious collaboration of Kensho Watanabe as the conductor and the extraordinary George Li on the piano. Attendees will be treated to a splendid program commencing with Jessica Hunt's "Climb," segueing into the spirited "Dances of Galánta" by Zoltán Kodály, and culminating in the grandeur of Ludwig van Beethoven's Piano Concerto No. 5 "Emperor."

Spotlight on George Li

George Li, a pianist celebrated for his 'staggering technical prowess, a sense of command and depth of expression,' as noted by The Washington Post, will bring his remarkable talents to the featured Beethoven piece. With a storied trajectory that includes clinching the Silver Medal at the 2015 International Tchaikovsky Competition, Li's career has been on an impressive ascent, establishing him as a fixture on the global classical music stage.

His 2022-2023 season's engagements are noteworthy, marking appearances with prestigious orchestras across America and even with the Orchestre Philharmonique Royal de Liège in Belgium, alongside various recital performances in the likes of Carnegie Hall and other prominent venues across the states.

Kensho Watanabe: A Conductor of Note

Kensho Watanabe, the adept conductor for the event, is quickly making a name for himself as a promising and multifaceted conductor. Having previously served as assistant conductor of the Philadelphia Orchestra and being a recipient of a Solti Foundation U.S. Career Assistance Award, Watanabe's resume is decorated with critical acclaim and professional achievements, including a notable debut with the same Philadelphia Orchestra.

His 2022-2023 season is filled with debuts and returns, further solidifying his reputation within the orchestral community in the United States and abroad.

About Composer Jessica Hunt

Composition dynamo, Jessica Hunt, whose piece "Climb" is featured in the program, has made significant marks as a composer with commissions from top-tier orchestras and ensembles. Her works, often threaded with narrative depth and emotional resonance, bring to light her unique approach to music that intersects theatrical elements with narrative, sound, truth, and fiction.

Hunt's compositions also address personal themes, such as her experiences with disability and chronic illness, as expressed in "Climb," commissioned by the Philadelphia Orchestra.

Need-to-Know for Concertgoers

For those eager to partake in this musical feast, tickets and further information are accessible via phone by calling (626) 531-1401, or by reaching out to [email protected]. Additionally, details are available on the website at the official page for the "Beethoven Emperor" concert.

Pasadena, Symphony, Concert