The New York Philharmonic's performance on Saturday night struck a delightful balance between tradition and change.
Alan Gilbert, who was named the Music Director of the New York Philharmonic in 2007, led the orchestra through an expertly assembled program of Dvořák's The Golden Spinning Wheel, Saint-Saëns's Violin Concerto No. 3 in B minor, and Martinu's Symphony No. 4. Gilbert will be officially inaugurated as the Director of the New York Philharmonic in September for the 2009-2010 season, following a line of distinguished directors like Leonard Bernstein and current Director Lorin Maazel.
Joshua Bell, the evening’s featured performer, rose to national attention at the age of 14, and has since become one of the most renowned classical violinists of his time. His interpretation of Violin Concerto No. 3 in B minor was sensitively and masterfully executed, and was peppered with moments of furious melodic flourishes and exposed legato passages.
At one point in the second movement, one could nearly feel audience members hold in their breath for fear of breaking the tension created by suspension of the violin melody above sonorous orchestral accompaniment. Everyone was captivated by the rich timbre of Bell’s 1713 Gibson ex Huberman Stradivarius violin.
Martinu's Symphony No. 4 marked a refreshing change of pace. Though he is a less well-known composer, this selection demonstrated his ability to compose both lighthearted melodies and passages of surprising gravity.
Those who will be in the city over the summer should take the opportunity to see Lorin Maazel conduct during the last few weeks of his tenure. He has selected works that span his wide-ranging interests and passions, and will direct the Philharmonic through the conclusion of the 2008-2009 season in June.
Gilbert’s ascent to one of the most prestigious positions in the classical music world marks the dawning of a new era of The New York Philharmonic, which is not only one of the world’s most renowned orchestras, but also unique to New York City.
The Philharmonic offers $12 student rush tickets for select performances up to 10 days before the performance.
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