New Jersey Symphony: The American Dream

The Emmy and Grammy Award-winning New Jersey Symphony is redefining what it means to be a nationally leading, relevant orchestra in the 21st century. The Symphony is renewing its deeply rooted commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion by championing new, and often local, artists; engaging audiences for whom the inspiring depth and breadth of classical music will be a new experience; and incorporating the broadest possible representation in all aspects of our organization—all to better reflect and serve our vibrant communities. Since 2021, Music Director Xian Zhang has worked together with composer, violinist, educator and social-justice advocate Daniel Bernard Roumain, the orchestra’s Resident Artistic Catalyst, to offer programming that connects with diverse communities in Newark and throughout New Jersey.

Internationally renowned Chinese American conductor Xian Zhang began her tenure as the New Jersey Symphony’s current Music Director in 2016. Since her arrival at the New Jersey Symphony, Zhang has revitalized programming with an industry-leading commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion in mainstage concerts. In its second century of bringing concerts to the people of New Jersey, the Symphony will present audience favorites including Dvořák’s “New World” Symphony, Orff’s Carmina Burana , Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons, violinist Joshua Bell leading the orchestra in Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto and pianist Daniil Trifonov playing Gershwin’s Concerto in F. New Jersey Symphony co-commissions include works by internationally renowned living composers—Anna Clyne’s Piano Concerto and Jessie Montgomery’s Snapshots. Composers Rob Kapilow and Daniel Bernard Roumain will present world premieres.