Bassoon concertos are rare enough that a new one by a Pulitzer winner, written for the Philharmonic's principal since 1981, is a real event rather than a filler premiere. The Schubert on the second half is among the heaviest lifting in the symphonic canon and rewards Geffen Hall's rebuilt acoustic. If you are hosting out-of-town family, this program works even for people who think they dislike new music.
What to expect
About an hour and forty-five minutes with an intermission in the Wu Tsai Theater. The Price and the Puts premiere come first, the Schubert after. Expect a large orchestra, a solo bassoon placed front and centre for the concerto, and a long, propulsive symphony that runs close to an hour on its own.
Good to know
- David Geffen Hall is on the Lincoln Center plaza; the 1 to 66th St-Lincoln Center is the closest stop.
- The program runs approximately one hour and forty-five minutes including intermission.
- The Philharmonic's Phil for All program offers reduced-price tickets to a portion of the house.
- The rebuilt Wu Tsai Theater has strong sound in the side and rear tiers, not just the orchestra.
- Concert dress is entirely informal; nobody expects black tie.
- Accessible seating, assistive listening and large-print programs are available at the hall.
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Common questions
What is the world premiere on this program?
Kevin Puts's Bassoon Concerto, written for Philharmonic Principal Bassoon Judith LeClair and co-commissioned with the St. Louis Symphony and Minnesota Orchestra.
Which Schubert symphony is the Great?
Symphony No. 9 in C major, nicknamed the Great to distinguish it from his earlier C major symphony.
Who is conducting?
Santtu-Matias Rouvali, principal conductor of the Philharmonia Orchestra in London.
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