Concert Will Celebrate 135th Anniversary of Prokofiev's Birth in China

The National Centre for the Performing Arts will host a special concert on June 21, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. in its Concert Hall, marking the third installment in a series commemorating the 135th anniversary of Sergei Prokofiev’s birth.

Titled Commemorating the 135th Anniversary of Prokofiev’s Birth Series III: Johannes Wildner and Serena Wang Perform Prokofiev, the program highlights two of the composer’s most representative works from different periods of his life. Pianist Serena Wang will perform alongside conductor Johannes Wildner.

The concert will feature Piano Concerto No. 2 in G minor, Op. 16 and Symphony No. 5 in B-flat major, Op. 100. The Second Piano Concerto, composed during Prokofiev’s youth, is known for its bold, avant-garde style, large-scale structure, and extraordinary technical demands on the soloist. In contrast, the Fifth Symphony, one of his most frequently performed orchestral works, reflects a later stage in his career and has been described by the composer as “a symphony of the greatness of the human spirit.”

Prokofiev’s artistic journey was shaped by both acclaim and adversity. Emerging during a time of political upheaval, he initially faced criticism at home, with early works such as his First Symphony dismissed by some as escapist. These challenges contributed to his decision to leave his homeland, leading to years abroad in the United States and Europe. During this period, he experienced both success and setbacks—praised by The New York Times as “the most promising Russian composer after Stravinsky,” yet also criticized in certain circles for his artistic approach.

After more than a decade overseas, Prokofiev chose to return to his homeland in 1933, citing a deep connection to Russian culture and a desire to reconnect with its artistic and emotional landscape. The works featured in this concert reflect both his early experimental voice and the mature style he developed after his return.