18-Year-Old Pianist Performs With Melrose Symphony

The Melrose Symphony kicked off its 98th Opening Night on Saturday in Memorial Hall. The concert featured 18-year-old pianist Kadar Qian performing Rachmaninoff’s famous “Rhapsody on a Theme by Paganini.”

Qian is no stranger to the Melrose Symphony. He first performed with the orchestra at the age of 13, and has since performed over 100 concerts, including a solo appearance with the Boston Pops and NPR’s “From the Top.”

In addition to his performing career, Qian is the president of his class at Westford Academy, and has served as the Melrose Symphony’s Assistant Conductor since 2013.

Conductor Yoichi Udagawa led an exhilarating and insightful performance. Bobby C’s Ristorante provided refreshments and food during the performance.