Concertmaster named executive director of Beijing’s National Centre for the Performing Arts Orchestra

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The National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA) in Beijing has announced the appointment of Chinese–Canadian violinist Li Zhe, 47, as the new executive director of the NCPA Orchestra. Li is currently concertmaster of the orchestra, as well as an honorary artist and member of the art committee at the NCPA. He is also a guest professor and graduate adviser at the Central Conservatory of Music (CCOM) in Beijing, and a director of the Chinese Musicians Association’s Chamber Music Society.

Li studied at the CCOM’s associated primary school with violinist Lin Yaoji, going on to receive a full scholarship to study at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London and at the University of Montreal. Li performed as concertmaster of the China National Opera House Symphony Orchestra from 2010–2012 and joined the NCPA Orchestra in 2011, a year after the orchestra’s founding. In 2024, he helped to found the Beijing Youth Symphony Orchestra, acting as artistic adviser and mentor.

Upon his appointment as executive director, Li shared his vision for the future:

‘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.’