NCPA Orchestra appoints veteran musician as new executive director

The National Centre for the Performing Arts in Beijing officially announced the appointment of Li Zhe as the new executive director of the NCPA Orchestra, the resident orchestra of the NCPA, on Sept 5.

The Chinese Canadian violinist, Li, 47, an honorary artist at the NCPA, a member of the NCPA's art committee, and the concertmaster of the NCPA Orchestra, is also a director of the Chinese Musicians Association's Chamber Music Society, a guest professor, and a graduate adviser at the Central Conservatory of Music.

Over the past decade, Li has collaborated with his colleagues, including the NCPA Orchestra's Music Director Lyu Jia, and numerous guest conductors to deliver more than 10 seasons of performances, appearing in nearly 1,000 concerts and operas, and has frequently led the orchestra on international tours. Li has also actively participated in the orchestra's administrative work and contributed significantly to the establishment of regulations and administrative systems.

Regarding this appointment, Li said: "Over the past 15 years, the NCPA Orchestra has grown significantly. It has become one of China's finest symphonic ensembles. Through international tours and the recording and release of albums, the orchestra has established a broad reputation within the international classical music community.

"Looking to the future, I will work closely with my colleagues to constantly improve the quality of our performances, and bring even more exciting music to our audience and music lovers. At the same time, the orchestra will continue to support young musicians domestically and internationally, to deepen cooperation with orchestras and music institutions worldwide, and further expand our international influence."

Learning to play the violin at the age of 5, Li graduated from the Central Conservatory of Music and was awarded a full scholarship to further his studies at the Guildhall School of Music & Drama in London and the University of Montreal's Faculty of Music.

After returning to China, Li served as concertmaster of the China National Opera House Symphony Orchestra from 2010 to 2012. Throughout his performing career, he has worked with internationally renowned conductors and musicians, including Zubin Mehta, Seiji Ozawa, and Myung-Whun Chung.

In addition to his performances, he was also involved in the founding of the Beijing Youth Symphony Orchestra in 2024, serving as artistic adviser and mentor.