March came in like a lamb, with temperatures in the 80s and 70s. But only a few days later, we were back into the 40s, with a stiff wind. The glories of New Jersey.
This fabulously gay Friday the 13th brought the New Jersey Symphony to Richardson Auditorium on the lovely Princeton University campus.
Even before the concert began, faeries worked their spell. I met a handsome young man, stylishly clad, rolling a suitcase festooned with airport tags. He chatted me up with his charming Euro accent. I actually thought he might be the dishy young Swiss pianist playing today. But no! Leo volunteered that he is part teacher, part student, and as soon as we chatted, he was gone. Zut Alors!
We live in a remarkable age. Both conductor and pianist were indisposed, and by that same Friday the 13th magic, a swell conductor and fiery young pianist were found. Magical.
Markus Stenz stepped in at the last minute and he was superb. His deft and sensitive touch was especially welcomed in the Chopin. We heard him in Princeton once before and he was altogether welcome to return again this year. Albert Cano Smit also replaced the pianist scheduled to appear. Tall as bamboo, and juicy as a tulip, Mr. Cano Smit was an altogether handsome tall drink of water. I happened upon him at the end of the concert, and he held the door for me. Young, talented, handsome, and a superb artist. Return again soon young man.
The Farrenc Overture was a surprise in that this wasn’t a contemporary composer, but a 19th century artist of considerable accomplishment.
The evening concluded with a piquant and arousing Bartok Concerto for Orchestra.
The Princeton audience heaped applause onto both this and the Chopin.
A fine, exhilarating event.
The New Jersey Symphony continues its 2025-2026 Season in Princeton with Joshua Bell conducting and as violin soloist on May 15. The final concert this season will be June 15, with Emanuel Ax as piano soloist.
Of course, the Symphony also appears at various venues across New Jersey.
For information about concerts this season, and to subscribe to next sesson, visit
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Program
Markus Stenz conductor
Albert Cano Smit piano
New Jersey Symphony
Louise Farrenc Overture No. 1 in E Minor, Op. 23
Frédéric Chopin Concerto No. 2 in F Minor for Piano and Orchestra, Op. 21
Intermission
Béla Bartók Concerto for Orchestra