The New York Philharmonic

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What’s New

A Farewell to Jaap: NY Phil Announces 2023–24 Season

Posted March 21, 2023

In the New York Philharmonic’s 2023–24 season, announced today, we’ll say a fond farewell to Jaap van Zweden in his final year as Music Director. As Deborah Borda, the NY Phil’s Linda and Mitch Hart President and CEO, said: “We are grateful for his championing of the reimagined David Geffen Hall, and the remarkable concerts that he and the NY Phil gave to inaugurate our new home.” Jaap himself, however, declared: “I actually am not thinking of it as a farewell, but rather as a new chapter. This 2023–24 season reflects my love and respect for the musicians of the New York Philharmonic as we unite to bring you our collective best, including occasions on which our musicians will be highlighted.”

Indeed, throughout 2023–24, Jaap will spotlight six Philharmonic players in solo appearances, in works by composers ranging from Mozart and Brahms to Tan Dun. He also conducts titanic works of the canon — like Mozart’s Requiem, Mahler’s Resurrection Symphony, and Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5 — as well as World Premieres by Steve Reich and Joel Thompson, both co-commissioned by the New York Philharmonic. And he leads the US Premiere of The Elements, a collective work of movements by five composers — a project conceived by violinist Joshua Bell, who also appears as soloist.

Here’s a look at what next season has to offer beyond Jaap’s appearances:

  • A semi-staged production of Aaron Zigman and Mark Campbell’s Émigré — an oratorio that tells a story centering on how Shanghai served as a refuge for World War II–era Jews — will be conducted by Long Yu and directed by Mary Birnbaum, the newly appointed artistic and general director of Opera Saratoga. The work’s US Premiere will feature an international cast of vocalists and the New York Philharmonic Chorus, directed by Malcolm J. Merriweather.

  • To mark the centennial of Hungarian-Austrian composer György Ligeti — one of the most influential composers of the 20th century — the Orchestra performs four of his works, including Mifiso la sodo (in its US Premiere) and his Piano Concerto, featuring Pierre-Laurant Aimard as soloist. Aimard also performs Ligeti’s complete Études alongside other works that reflect Ligeti’s multicultural approach to composition, on Artist Spotlight.

  • The acclaimed violin virtuoso and musical ambassador Hilary Hahn will be The Mary and James G. Wallach Artist-in-Residence, appearing in two orchestral programs, performing Prokofiev’s Violin Concerto No. 1 and, later, Ginastera’s Violin Concerto and Sarasate’s Carmen Fantasy. She’ll also take center stage in an Artist Spotlight concert that concludes the cycle of J.S. Bach’s Sonatas and Partitas for solo violin she began here just this month.

  • Altogether, the Philharmonic gives 14 World, US, and New York Premieres over the course of the season, including Project 19 commissions by Olga Neuwirth, Mary Kouyoumdjian, and Melinda Wagner, as well as works by a wide range of composers, including Kinan Azmeh and Layale Chaker, Katherine Balch, Bryce Dessner, Elena Firsova, Anders Hillborg, and Jerod Impichchaachaaha' Tate.

  • The Art of the Score returns with Steven Spielberg’s West Side Story, in its first live-to-film presentation in New York, the first time the NY Phil has played it since the film’s recording sessions. The Philharmonic also performs the scores to Black Panther and Vertigo — both also in their first New York live-to-film presentations.

  • We celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Young People’s Concerts (YPCs), the beloved series that has offered family-friendly programming to generations of music fans. The season’s four YPCs include an exploration the series’ legacy through a focus on Bernstein, who conducted the first televised YPCs; an examination of how music can reinvigorate the imagination; premieres of works by young composers; and an appearance by cellist Sheku Kanneh-Mason.

  • The NY Phil continues its commitment to serving New York City’s communities. The free Concerts in the Parks, Presented by Didi and Oscar Schafer, and the Free Memorial Day Concert at The Cathedral Church of Saint John the Divine, Presented by the Anna-Maria and Stephen Kellen Foundation, both return, and are complemented by the Phil for All: Ticket Access Program, which offers $10 tickets to select subscription concerts through the 2023–24 season.
 

Executive Director Gary Ginstling, who will succeed Deborah Borda as President and CEO this summer, summarized the coming season: “Our 2023–24 season celebrates Jaap van Zweden and presents the Orchestra in repertoire ranging from fresh new works by a diverse group of composers to beloved cornerstones of the repertoire. It is an honor to be joining the Philharmonic as we explore the possibilities of our extraordinary new home and how we can share the experience with as many people as possible.”

We can’t wait to see you back at David Geffen Hall!

Gustavo Dudamel To Become NY Phil Music and Artistic Director

Posted February 07, 2023

 

Watch Gustavo Dudamel share his thoughts on becoming the NY Phil's next Music and Artistic Director during a recent visit to David Geffen Hall

On February 7, the New York Philharmonic announced that Gustavo Dudamel will become the Orchestra’s Music and Artistic Director. In the 2026–27 season Dudamel will begin a five-year term, becoming the 27th conductor to preside over the NY Phil, building on a legacy that includes giants such as Gustav Mahler, Arturo Toscanini, and Leonard Bernstein. In addition, Dudamel will serve as Music Director Designate in the 2025–26 season. Dudamel traveled to New York City on February 20 to meet the Orchestra, Board, staff, and media, and to share his thoughts on his historic appointment.

A native of Venezuela, Gustavo Dudamel currently serves as Music and Artistic Director of the Los Angeles Philharmonic — a position he has held since 2009 — as well as Music Director of the Opéra National de Paris and Music Director of the Simón Bolívar Symphony Orchestra.

About this exciting new chapter, Dudamel remarked: “Today, above all, I am grateful. I am grateful to the musicians and leadership of the New York Philharmonic as we embark upon this new and beautiful journey together. As the great poet Federico García Lorca said: ‘Every step we take on earth brings us to a new world.’” He added: “I gaze with joy and excitement at the world that lies before me in New York City.”

He is no stranger to the New York Philharmonic, having conducted 26 concerts as a guest beginning with his November 2007 debut, in which he led the Orchestra in works by Dvořák and Prokofiev, as well as in the NY Phil’s first performances of Chávez’s Sinfonia India since 1961 — led by Bernstein.

As a fresh-faced, 26-year-old wunderkind — just a year older than Bernstein was when he made his NY Phil debut — Dudamel’s maiden voyage at the NY Phil was feverishly anticipated. He rose to the occasion, with The New York Times observing, “he withstood the pressure and delivered teeming, impassioned, and supremely confident performances. … Clearly, the Philharmonic players were inspired by the boundless joy and intensity of his music-making.” Not only that — what also impressed about Dudamel was his thoroughness and preparedness, with The Times noting that his “kinetic, balletic conducting style differs little between concert and rehearsal.”

Subsequent Philharmonic highlights include his 2009 appearance, conducting Mahler’s Symphony No. 5, as well as The Schumann Connection in March 2022, which featured World Premieres of Gabriela Ortiz’s Clara and Andreia Pinto Correia’s Os pássaros da noite, works by composers he selected for NY Phil commissions to complement Robert Schumann’s symphonic cycle.

Gustavo Dudamel will return to New York City this spring to conduct the Orchestra in three performances of Mahler’s Symphony No. 9, May 19–21. These concerts will also mark his first time conducting in the newly reimagined David Geffen Hall’s Wu Tsai Theater, the venue he will, in just a few short years, call home.

Looking ahead to this exciting new era in the Orchestra’s history, Philharmonic leadership can scarcely contain their enthusiasm. NY Phil’s Linda and Mitch Hart President & CEO Deborah Borda said: “This is a dream come true for our musicians, our audience, and certainly for me. The coming together of a great orchestra, a visionary Music and Artistic Director, and our transformed hall promises the richest of futures.” Gary Ginstling, the NY Phil’s Executive Director, who will succeed Borda as President & CEO, agreed: “With Gustavo Dudamel, the Philharmonic is poised for what I believe will be one of the most exciting chapters in its storied history.”

As for the musicians, well, just take it from Principal Trumpet Christopher Martin, who said: “Each time he takes the podium we feel an extraordinary connection with him. This moment aligns with the unparalleled artistic tradition of this nation’s oldest orchestra. We look forward to sharing our deepening musical relationship with audiences both in our revitalized David Geffen Hall and on tour around the world.”

Dudamel, himself, summed it up thusly: “All of us are united in our belief that culture creates a better world, and in our dream that music is a fundamental right. I look forward to the work ahead.”

No doubt, that sentiment is echoed by music lovers throughout New York City and beyond. Here’s to the next chapter of the New York Philharmonic’s story, one that’s sure to be filled with brilliant music — from beloved classics to exciting new works — bravura performances, and plenty of standing ovations.


Retrospective



Gustavo Dudamel made his NY Phil debut on November 29, 2007, leading works by Dvořák, Prokofiev, and Chávez. The NY Phil Archives presented him with former Music Director Leonard Berstein’s baton for the occasion, and during the energetic finale of the Prokofiev the baton split in two. Following the concert, Dudamel turned to apologize, but NY Phil Archivist / Historian Barbara Haws reassured him, saying: “Now the baton has more history.”  (Photo by Chris Lee)



Gustavo Dudamel conducted the New York Philharmonic only months before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. On January 15, 2020, Dudamel led the first of two weeks of programs, which included the New York Premiere of Piano Concerto, Universos infinitos, by Esteban Benzecry (second from left), with Sergio Tiempo (third from right) as soloist. Following the concert the artists were joined by NY Phil Co-Chairmen Peter W. May (far left) and Oscar L. Tang (far right), and Linda and Mitch Hart President & CEO Deborah Borda. (Photo by Chris Lee)



Gustavo Dudamel returned to the NY Phil in March 2022 to preside over The Schumann Connection — a two-week exploration of Robert Schumann’s symphonic cycle complemented by World Premieres of two works by composers he selected: Gabriela Ortiz and Andreia Pinto Correia. (Photo by Chris Lee)

NY Phil Celebrates Year of the Rabbit with Lunar New Year Gala

Posted February 02, 2023

The New York Philharmonic celebrated the Lunar New Year in style, with a festive Concert and Gala at the new David Geffen Hall. The program featured the return of conductor Long Yu and NY Phil debuts by erhu virtuoso Yiwen Lu and violinist Ning Feng in a potpourri of works by composers ranging from Qigang Chen to Leonard Bernstein. The Gala evening — which began with a pre-concert cocktail reception and ended with a seated dinner — was made possible by Presenting Sponsor Starr International Foundation; Honorary Gala Chairs Mr. and Mrs. Maurice R. Greenberg; and Gala Co-Chairs Angela Chen and Misook Doolittle, both also Board Members, and Board Co-Chairman Oscar L. Tang and his wife, Agnes Hsu-Tang. It was an altogether spirited evening, ushering in the Year of the Rabbit — a symbol of longevity, peace, and prosperity.

See the slideshow above for some highlights of the festivities.

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Young New Yorkers for the Philharmonic Winter Benefit

Posted December 22, 2022

On December 7, the Young New Yorkers for the Philharmonic Winter Benefit was held, marking the end of a triumphant 2022. The Young New Yorkers (YNY), a dynamic group of young professionals, play an important role in the life of the Orchestra, and are an essential part of its future. Hosted by Sarah Jane and Trevor Gibbons, the benefit included a reception, a performance by Musicians from the New York Philharmonic, dinner, and dancing. Enjoy the above slideshow for a taste of the festive event, and learn more about how to support YNY here!

All photos by Fadi Kheir

The NY Phil Remembers Stanley Drucker (1929–2022)

Posted December 21, 2022

The New York Philharmonic deeply mourns the passing of the legendary orchestral clarinetist Stanley Drucker, who joined the Philharmonic in 1948, at age 19, and was appointed Principal Clarinet by Leonard Bernstein in 1960. Over the course of his 60-year tenure he appeared in more than 10,200 concerts in 60 countries, with solo turns including 64 performances of Copland’s Clarinet Concerto, and worked during the tenures of nine NY Phil Music Directors. Accolades on his retirement in 2009 included the Guinness World Record for “longest career as a clarinetist” and being named an Honorary Member of the New York Philharmonic. At the time, then Music Director Lorin Maazel said: “He stands alone in the world of clarinetists. His contribution to the orchestra and its fame is immeasurable.” The Philharmonic extends condolences to his wife, Naomi, and to his children and grandchildren.

See the slideshow above for a look back at Stanley Drucker's historic career.

NY Phil Inaugurates New David Geffen Hall with Two Opening Galas

Posted November 01, 2022

The New York Philharmonic capped off its monthlong HOME festival in style at the end of October, inaugurating the completely transformed David Geffen Hall with activities presented in collaboration with Lincoln Center: two Opening Galas, plus Open House Weekend, which offered wide-ranging activities so the public could discover New York’s new home for music.

The first Gala, The Journey, brought together stars of stage and screen to perform alongside the Orchestra to celebrate David Geffen Hall’s decades-long journey to completion. The soloists included Lin-Manuel Miranda, Sara Bareilles, Brandon Victor Dixon, Renée Fleming, Joaquina Kalukango, Brian Stokes Mitchell, Bernadette Peters, and Vanessa Williams.

The second, The Joy, spoke to the spirit of unity and hope, with Music Director Jaap van Zweden conducting the World Premiere of Angélica Negrón’s You Are the Prelude, commissioned by the Philharmonic for the occasion, and Beethoven’s monumental Ninth Symphony, with the New York Philharmonic Chorus uplifting the audience with the iconic “Ode to Joy” finale.

Open House Weekend invited audiences of all ages to explore everything the new hall has to offer with a variety of family-friendly activities — completely free. All told, some 15,000 people dropped by over the course of the weekend.

Check out some of the highlights above, and be sure to stop by David Geffen Hall to see it all for yourself as our 2022–23 season continues!

Critics Roundup: David Geffen Hall Reopens

Posted October 17, 2022

The wait is over! The new David Geffen Hall has officially opened its doors, ushering in not just the NY Phil’s 2022–23 concert season, but also a brand-new era for the Orchestra. The new hall — completed two years ahead of schedule and on budget — is the result of an extensive renovation, a collaboration by Lincoln Center and the NY Phil.

Here’s a sampling of what critics are saying about the sights — and, of course, the sounds — of the Orchestra’s totally transformed home following the first week of performances:

“The sound finds you. … It’s as if you’re inside the body of an instrument.”

  – Michael Andor Brodeur, The Washington Post

“The sound, like the whole experience of being there, is far more immediate and warm. ... the sound was glistening and lucid. … We hear with our eyes as well as our ears, and simply seeing your fellow audience members sitting above and around the stage makes Geffen sound more human.” 

– Zachary Woolfe, The New York Times

“Standing on the stage looking out, I felt the space was invitingly intimate. I felt the same sitting in various seats close and far, high and low. … I’m guardedly optimistic about what has been accomplished. The transformation of the public spaces already seems a triumph. Especially the spacious yet cozy main lobby just off the plaza, which has a 50-foot-wide video screen on the back wall, upon which live performances will be screened for free, so passers-by can get a sense of what’s going on upstairs.”

  – Anthony Tommasini, The New York Times

“It feels, in a word, warm. … Stylish, effective, and harmonious.”

  – Nicholas Kenyon, The Telegraph

“Not only is there a largely new hall, but the New York Philharmonic is also launching an imaginative programme for the opening season, arguably the most eye-catching of any major international orchestra.”

  – Richard Fairman, Financial Times 

Don't just take their word for it! Check out our 2022–23 event calendar and stop in to see what all the buzz is about. We can’t wait to see you all season long — and beyond.

All photos by Chris Lee unless otherwise noted

NY Phil at Oklahoma State University

Posted September 27, 2022

With the opening of the new David Geffen Hall just around the corner, the New York Philharmonic took a weekend excursion to Stillwater, Oklahoma, to kick off its residency at The McKnight Center for the Performing Arts at Oklahoma State University — its first return since helping inaugurate the hall in 2019. The residency marked the beginning of a three-year partnership among the NY Phil, the Center, and OSU, announced in March.

The residency not only provides the Stillwater community’s music lovers with world-class orchestral music; it also includes educational activities, such as masterclasses for OSU students, led by NY Phil musicians, and a Very Young People’s Concert for local first and second graders.

Check out some of the highlights of the residency, which included Gil Shaham playing Mendelssohn, Conrad Tao playing Mozart, Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony (which New Yorkers can hear in late October), and more.

All photos by Chris Lee

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