The New World Initiative — the New York Philharmonic’s season-long, citywide immersion in Dvořák’s Symphony No. 9, From the New World — is in full swing.
Participating musicians and ensembles have spread the sounds of Dvořák’s “Goin’ Home” melody throughout the city. From full orchestral performances, arrangements written by and for women in an internment camp during World War II, to the ethereal tones of the musical saw, each interpretation offers a unique glimpse into New York City’s multifaceted culture.
With the goal of introducing the New World Symphony to as many New York City students as possible, the Philharmonic, in partnership with the NYC Department of Education, developed a curriculum exploring the work’s African American and Native American influences and the theme of “home,” using materials from the Philharmonic’s Archives. This curriculum was presented to more than 400 teachers at a professional development day in November, which included performances of the work.
Get a taste for the variety of ways people are engaging with The New World Initiative in the above video, and learn more about The New World Initiative here.
