Alum George Li Gets Glowing Reviews!

Last month we posted information about alum George Li’s Boston debut recital at Jordan Hall on October 29–one of the recitals awarded him as the first place winner of the Young Concert Artist International Auditions. But we’ve only just caught wind of the wonderful reviews that Li’s tour through Boston, New York, and Washington, D.C. has received from the Washington Post, the Boston Phoenix, and the New York Times!

“Li’s performance left no doubt that he combines staggering technical prowess, a sense of command and depth of expression,” wrote Cecelia Porter of the Washington Post. The New York Times praised George for his “charming interpretation” of Variations of Pierre Rode’s “Ricordanza” by Czerny, “whose filigree and runs Mr. Li played with elegance and wit.”

“As a keyboard technician, he’s as virtuosic as Lang Lang, but his palette has more colors, and his approach to playing is appealingly, touchingly music-directed, not self-directed,” raved Lloyd Schwartz of the Boston Phoenix. “His fast playing is not only breathtaking, but beautiful. And musical.”

Sixteen-year-old George appeared on  Show 144 in Boston, Massachusetts at age 10. His performances continue through June 2012 and will take him to Ohio, Vancouver, Massachusetts, Sweden, and finally South Carolina for the Southeastern Piano Festival.

George’s parents tell us they’re extremely proud and thank his teachers, his school Walnut Hill,  the New England Conservatory Preparatory School, and others for their guidance and support. From the Top is also very proud and hopes George continues to rake in great reviews!