On Wednesday, October 21st, Ward Melville musicians had the pleasure of attending an open rehearsal of the New York Philharmonic, one of the most outstanding symphony orchestras in the United States. The students watched the performance in David Geffen Hall, which is located in Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, and is the home of the Philharmonic.

The rehearsal began at 9:45 am, and ended around 12:30 pm. The program included Brahm’s first symphony, which the Philharmonic describes as having, “a churning opening, lyrical violin solos, and a notable brass finale transcribed from Swiss alphorns.” The orchestra also featured violinist Lisa Batiashvili and cellist Gautier Capuçon, with conductor Semyon Bychkov. The performance was absolutely beautiful and breathtaking.

After the performance, the Ward Melville students headed to Ellen’s Stardust Diner, a well-known diner on Broadway acclaimed for it’s singing waiters and waitresses, to get lunch before their trip back home. Many of the diner’s wait staff go on to star in Broadway shows. Everyone had fun listening to the performances of current hits such as ‘Uptown Funk’ and songs from famous Broadway shows.

Overall, the trip was amazing. As one orchestra member, Alyssa Rhodes, described, “It was a fun experience that members of the orchestra should definitely go to. It was entertaining and an enjoyable day in the city with friends while watching incredible performances.” Watching talented string players was incredible, and simply showed the students that they could be as talented someday. Ellen’s Stardust Diner was an enjoyable end to the trip. Everyone is looking forward to attending the trip again next year.

For more information on the Philharmonic and Ellen’s Stardust Diner, visit:

http://nyphil.org/ and http://www.ellensstardustdiner.com/.