Lang Lang Performs Beethoven “Emperor” Concerto with The Toronto Symphony Orchestra in Toronto

Written by Fête Chinoise Editorial Team
Photography: Allan Cabral, George Pimentel. Images courtesy of the TSO.

On September 24, Roy Thomson Hall was filled with excitement as the Toronto Symphony Orchestra (TSO) launched its 2025/26 season with a spectacular gala event featuring internationally acclaimed pianist Lang Lang. Following the orchestra’s thrilling performance of Carmina Burana from September 18-21, this gala evening was a celebration of music, community, and Toronto’s vibrant cultural scene.

Guests were greeted by a series of delightful musical moments throughout the evening. A woodwind trio performed during the reception, followed by a Toronto Symphony Youth Orchestra quartet playing Mozart’s Piano Quartet No. 1 in G Minor as guests enjoyed canapés. The atmosphere was energized further by a bold brass fanfare.

The highlight of the night was undoubtedly the performance by internationally acclaimed pianist Lang Lang. He captivated the audience with the beginning with Dukas’ whimsical The Sorcerer’s Apprentice, followed by his majestic performance of Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 5, popularly known as the Emperor. Conducted by TSO Music Director Gustavo Gimeno, the performance was met with rapturous applause and a heartfelt encore featuring 15-year-old Toronto prodigy Ryan Huang, a Lang Lang Young Scholar and the pianist’s protégé, performing The Serpent’s Kiss by William Bolcom.

Following the concert, the TSO hosted the dinner in the lobby of Roy Thomson Hall, where 29 TSO musicians surprised guests with a fiery two-minute excerpt from Bizet’s Carmen, weaving through the crowd and creating an unforgettable experience.

Proceeds from the evening will support the orchestra’s education and community programs, which have reached over 1.8 million students in the past century, fostering the growth of young musicians and music lovers throughout the city. The event also marked the renewal of the partnership with the Lang Lang International Music Foundation, strengthening the connection between the global music community and Toronto’s local talent.

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