Hungarian Radiance
Yingdi Sun × Ji Yu × Hangzhou Philharmonic Orchestra
Liszt’s Brilliance Reimagined
Overview
On January 21, pianist Yingdi Sun, hailed by Western media as “The Pure Liszt”, joined conductor Ji Yu and the Hangzhou Philharmonic Orchestra for Hungarian Radiance — a celebration of Hungarian virtuosity and musical brilliance.
The program brought together three works of dazzling vitality: Liszt’s Piano Concerto No. 1 in E-flat Major, S.124, Bartók’s Concerto for Orchestra, and other pieces that capture Hungary’s rich musical spirit.
In the first half, Sun performed Liszt’s E-flat Concerto — a tour de force that fuses theatrical virtuosity with profound lyricism. Sun, the first Chinese pianist ever to win the 7th International Franz Liszt Piano Competition (Utrecht, 2005), previously performed Liszt’s Piano Concerto No. 2 in A Major with the Hangzhou Philharmonic in May 2022. This new collaboration, though originally a last-minute substitution, seemed destined to reunite pianist and orchestra under Liszt’s radiant banner.
The concert’s second half featured Bartók’s monumental Concerto for Orchestra, a masterpiece where every section of the orchestra takes the spotlight — weaving rhythm, color, and folk energy into a vivid celebration of Hungarian identity.
Concert Overview
“The pure Liszt” returns to the stage — illuminating Hungarian passion with fire and finesse.
Program
Franz Liszt (1811–1886)
Piano Concerto No. 1 in E-flat Major, S.124
Béla Bartók (1881–1945)
Concerto for Orchestra, Sz. 116, BB 123
Date & Venue
January 21, 2023 · 19:00 · Hangzhou Grand Theatre · Opera Hall
Conductor: Ji Yu
Piano: Yingdi Sun
Orchestra: Hangzhou Philharmonic Orchestra
Artists
Yingdi Sun | Piano
Gold Medalist of the 7th International Franz Liszt Piano Competition (Utrecht, 2005), Yingdi Sun is acclaimed by European critics as “the pure essence of Liszt.” His performances combine poetic restraint and radiant virtuosity, redefining Romantic pianism for a new generation.
Ji Yu | Conductor
One of China’s most dynamic young conductors, Ji Yu has led major orchestras across China in both symphonic and operatic repertoire. Known for his precise technique and energetic presence, he brings vitality and clarity to every performance, bridging tradition with modern expression.
Hangzhou Philharmonic Orchestra
Founded in 2007, the Hangzhou Philharmonic Orchestra (HPO) ranks among China’s leading symphonic ensembles. It has collaborated with hundreds of top international artists and appeared in prestigious venues across Europe, Asia, and South America. The orchestra’s mission extends beyond performance — engaging in cultural exchange, music education, and international tours that carry “the Sound of Hangzhou” to the world.
HPO performed at landmark events including the G20 Summit Gala “Impressions of Hangzhou” (2016) and the 70th Anniversary Celebration of the People’s Republic of China (2019), cementing its reputation as a symbol of artistic excellence and civic pride.