TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — French pianist Jean-Yves Thibaudet will perform with Taiwan’s National Symphony Orchestra (NSO) in Taipei and Kaohsiung this week.

Taipei's performance will take place at the National Concert Hall on Friday (Sept. 27). Kaohsiung’s concert on Saturday will be held at the National Kaohsiung Center for the Arts.

The first half of the concert will feature Charles-Camille Saint-Saens' Piano Concerto No. 5, and Johannes Brahms' Symphony No. 2 will be performed in the second. Both pieces were inspired by the composers' travels.

Saint-Saens' Piano Concerto No. 5, also known as the "Egyptian," is a vibrant blend of French elegance and Egyptian exoticism. The music vividly captures Saint-Saens' impressions of Cairo.

In Symphony No. 2, Brahms uses intricate orchestral techniques to create a stunning portrait of the serene beauty of Austria's Lake Worthersee. The symphony's four movements showcase Brahms' musical genius and creativity.

NSO Music Director Jun Markl praised Thibaudet as “one of the greatest pianists of our time.” Markl said the two have known each other for 30 years and have collaborated on many concerts.

Thibaudet is a versatile pianist who excels in solo, concerto, chamber music, jazz, and contemporary music. He has released over 50 recordings.

The Gramophone magazine praised Thibaudet's performance of Saint-Saens' Piano Concerto No. 5, highlighting his ability to capture the composer's bold ideas and vividly portray the Nile River landscape.

Thibaudet described the piece as a beautiful and diverse piece rarely performed by other pianists. He enjoys playing it in different locations.