Remembering Hizzoner

The New York Philharmonic honors former New York City Mayor Ed Koch, who died this morning at the age of 88. Ever the promoter of his beloved city, Koch was also a steady presence at Philharmonic events over the decades, from our Concerts in the Parks (these photos show him “backstage” with Lenny in 1986) to our Opening Night Galas and fundraising Radiothons.  

Thanks for the memories, Ed. 

Tell us your favorite: Iconic New Yorker

Jude Vaclavik: ”William Schuman is an iconic New Yorker, and one of my heroes. He was a first-rate composer — one of America’s greatest symphonists — and was an administrator who molded the classical music landscape of New York City as President of Juilliard and Lincoln Center. He is among the rarest breeds to be an exceptional administrator and prize-winning creative artist.”

Andy Akiho: “Martin Scorsese”

Christopher Rouse: “Paul Simon”

Check back throughout the week to learn more CONTACT! composer faves and learn more about the upcoming premieres at nyphil.org/contact.

exploreorg:

This photo from the Wolong collection shows a baby panda who seems to be conducting an orchestra. 

Did You Know? The New York Philharmonic is the oldest symphony orchestra in the U.S. and one of the oldest in the world? Founded in 1842, “it currently plays some 180 concerts a year, and on May 5, 2010, gave its 15,000th concert — a milestone unmatched by any other symphony orchestra” (NYPhil). 

Just one of the many things that rock about New York City. Help the victims of Hurricane Sandy, still without power by donating to the charity of your choice or the Red Cross relief fund, or by giving blood, which the region is currently in great need of. 

empirestatebuildingpictures:

9.27.2012  7:08pm

In honor of the New York Philharmonic’s 2012-2013 Season

Opening Gala Concert

Phil Fashionista

As the saying goes, “In fashion, one day you’re in, and the next, you’re out.” 

Such was the case with this fall 1958 model Orchestra uniform. In his first year as Music Director, Leonard Bernstein suggested the musicians wear a Nehru-style jacket at more casual Preview Concerts.

The idea didn’t last longer than any other trend seen during New York Fashion Week shows, currently underway at Lincoln Center (including in Avery Fisher Hall): the new uniforms were history by early 1959.

iamrebelspy:

Just copied over most of NYPhil’s concerts for the 2012-2013 season onto my Google calendar.

And we are in for an absolutely brilliant season. :) And the all-Stravinsky finale looks amazing.

Here’s the full season calendar, starting with a Free Dress Rehearsal for the Opening Night concert on September 19.

Lenny’s Baton

Included in The New York Times’s “History of New York in 50 Objects.“ 

- @broubrou | Webstagram

Summer nights, Avery Fisher Hall

While the Philharmonic is away from home, Avery Fisher Hall plays host to the Mostly Mozart Festival. Louis Langrée and the Mostly Mozart Festival Orchestra kick off events with a free preview concert tomorrow (Saturday, July 28), including Mozart’s Symphony No. 38, Prague, and Schubert’s Symphony No. 4. Here’s the info.