Notes of Inspiration: New York Philharmonic’s Vibrant Spring Season

Dec 5, 2023

Founded in 1842, the New York Philharmonic is the oldest symphony orchestra in the United States, and one of the oldest in the world. Jaap van Zweden became Music Director in 2018-19, succeeding titans including Bernstein, Toscanini and Mahler.

Today, the NY Phil connects with millions of music lovers each season through live concerts in New York and around the world, as well as broadcasts, recordings, and education programs. It’s a top-notch choice for student groups, with programs like Very Younge Composers for grades 4-8, and Young People’s Concerts for grades 3-12.

If you’re planning a trip to New York in the spring, consider a Philharmonic show like Sol Gabetta, Elim Chan, and Scheherazade, March 7-9. This performance will include debuts from conductor Elim Chan and cellist Sol Gabetta, performing a World Premier commission of Pisachi by Jerod Impichchaachaaha’ Tate; the bustling First Cello Concerto by Martinu; and of course Rimsky-Korsakov’s iconic Scheherazade—composed in 1888 and inspired by the tales of “One Thousand and One Nights,” with each movement representing a different story. It’s a great way to combine literature and music.

Later that month is Mendelssohn, Tan Dun, and Joel Thompson, March 21-24. This performance puts Mendelssohn’s Symphony No. 3 in the spotlight, inspired by the history and landscape of Scotland and inflected with stylistic elements of Scottish dances. Then you get to hear trombonist Joseph Alessi as soloist in Tan Dun’s Trombone Concerto, inspired by three ancient Chinese instruments.

Later, April 25-27 is Hilary Hahn and the Sounds of Spain, featuring the Phil’s artist in residence for the season, playing Sarasate’s Carmen Fantasy and a fiery modern masterpiece by Ginastera. The rhythms and harmonies of Spain infuse Ravel’s Rapsodie espagnole and his seductive Boléro — as well as Debussy’s Ibéria — with a magnificent variety of orchestral colors.

These are just a few highlights of a season with dozens more performances to enjoy.

Groups of 15 or more receive:

  • Discounts – Save up to 20% on select performances.
  • Waived Service Fees – Save an additional 12% on fees
  • Priority Seating – Group Reservations are available before public on-sale.
  • Locked-in Prices – Ticket prices are subject to change, but by reserving early, you lock in your ticket price.
  • Flexibility – Reservations can be adjusted up until final payment is due.
  • Talks and Q&A – Enhance your group experience with a pre-concert talk or post-concert Q&A.
  • Personalized Service – Your group will receive personal attention, recommendations, and assistance.

To get all the info you need and book your tickets, head to nyphil.org.