Critiques

At 9:10 p.m. the crowd stood as if one person to cheer Jacques Lacombe and the mighty NJSO following a riveting performance of Harlem. The well-deserved ovation lasted fully five minutes…

The centerpiece of the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra’s season opening concert under music director Jacques Lacombe at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center on Friday, “Rhapsody” provided a stunning showcase for the French guest pianist [Jean-Yves Thibaudet] and for the ensemble at large.

Lacombe led an animated, smartly paced performance. The musicians performed solidly throughout, with flowing, sinuous winds and sizzling brass capturing the work’s jazzy feel.