Jaap van Zweden, Music Director

To celebrate the New York Philharmonic's return to The McKnight Center, we’ve planned an unforgettable black tie gala event. More than 100 student, alumni, and community voices will join the musicians onstage for the grand finale of Beethoven’s ninth symphony. Considered to be his masterpiece, you’ll be swept up in the grandeur and triumph of “Ode to Joy.” All tickets to the Gala Concert include a celebratory reception held in the Marilynn and Carl Thoma Atrium as well as complimentary parking in the 4th Avenue Garage.

Featured Soloists
Lauren Snouffer, soprano
Jennifer Johnson Cano, mezzo-soprano
Thomas Cooley, tenor
Peixin Chen, bass

The student chorus will be directed by Dr. Tony Thornton, Director of Choral Activities at Oklahoma State University's Greenwood School of Music.

The New York Philharmonic will perform two additional concerts during their residency at The McKnight Center. On Saturday the orchestra welcomes guest soloist Gil Shaham to the stage to perform one of the most challenging and well-known works in classical repertory, Mendelssohn's Violin Concerto. Mr. Shaham is one of the foremost violinists of our time: his flawless technique combined with his inimitable warmth and generosity of spirit has solidified his renown as an American master.

The orchestra will also perform the overture to Mozart's Marriage of Figaro, a lively piece that has been one of the most played orchestral works since its premiere in 1786. Closing out the program is Price's Symphony No. 4. Composed in 1945, the work was never performed during Price's life and was presumed lost until 2009. It has since been praised by modern music critics.

On Sunday guest soloist Conrad Tao joins the orchestra to perform Mozart's Piano Concerto No. 17. This work showcases Mr. Tao's critically acclaimed talent, especially during the Allegro and Allegretto movements that are lively and full of character. He has appeared worldwide as a pianist and composer and has been dubbed “the kind of musician who is shaping the future of classical music” by New York Magazine.

Also on the program is Debussy's Prelude to the Afternoon of a Faun, the exquisite work that helped to define the composer's distinctive voice, and Respighi's Pines of Rome, the Italian composer's moving tribute to his country.

Throughout the week the New York Philharmonic's principal musicians will give masterclasses in each instrument for students at the Greenwood School of Music. Masterclasses are open to the public for observation and are free to attend. Check back in early fall for the schedule of masterclass events. Enhance your concert experience with free pre-concert conversations!
Saturday, September 24: Featuring Gil Shaham, violin, and Patrick Castillo, New York Philharmonic Vice President of Artistic Planning

Sunday, September 25: Featuring Conrad Tao, piano, and Patrick Castillo, New York Philharmonic Vice President of Artistic Planning

Dr. Thomas Lanners hosts half-hour conversations with our distinguished guest artists before each concert in our Classical Series. These casual discussions provide insight about the evening’s program, including the music that will be performed, the soloists, and the ensembles. Preludes is the perfect way to deepen your musical understanding and enhance your enjoyment of the concert.

Preludes is held in the Recital Hall beginning one hour prior to show time. No ticket needed - Preludes is free for all to attend.