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And the Livin’ is Evolutionary
New York Philharmonic presents “Summertime Classics”
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Stephen Sondheim, Michael Jackson, Elton John, Stevie Wonder, Led Zeppelin and even Lady Gaga. What do all these musicians have in common? They are known today to be overwhelmingly influential in their genres. They are all what we refer to as “original.” They all have chart-topping albums in their repertoires. They all have sold out many events in their time. The question becomes: How did they get this way? Simply, without the works of musicians such as Puccini, Gershwin or Mozart, today’s “originals” may not have existed. In truth, they were all influenced, in one way or another, by these true originals the New York Philharmonic is presenting in their seventh season of “Summertime Classics” from June 29-July 10.
These nine themed concerts, conducted and hosted by Bramwell Tovey, are beautifully divided into four programs. Begin with “From Russia with Love” (June 29-30) and experience the passionate songs of Prokofiev, Tchaikovsky and Glazunov, featuring Mikhail Simonyan on the violin. Next, swing with Gershwin in “Strike Up the Band” (July 1-2) and get patriotic with the United States Military Academy Band’s infamous performance of “The Stars and Strips are Forever.” Continue with “La Dolce Vita” (July 6-7) as you experience classics from Mozart, Puccini and more, featuring Nicole Cabell’s soprano voice. Finally, end with “From the Danube to the Rhine” (July 8-10) to hear the works of Brahm, Liszt and others, featuring Alexander Gavrylyuk on the piano.
All of these composers were more than just “original.” They have shaped the way the world sees music today. You have to know where you came from to find out where you are going. It is time to hear the music of the truly original idols. Their “livin’” was and still is evolutionary.
This concert series will be performed at the Avery Fisher Hall. For more information on this concert series and how to get tickets, the New York Philharmonic’s website.