NY Philharmonic Announces Morning of FREE Activities Prior to Gala Opening

Music Director Lorin Maazel and the New York Philharmonic will launch the 2008–09 season - the Orchestra's 167th - with celebratory free activities that culminate with the Gala Opening Night Concert on Wednesday, September 17, 2008. The day's events include a free dress rehearsal at 9:45 a.m. in Avery Fisher Hall; early-morning appearances by the New York Philharmonic Principal Brass outside Avery Fisher Hall; and an opportunity to meet Philharmonic musicians who will welcome visitors on line for the free rehearsal.

Visitors waiting on line will receive discount coupons to a future Philharmonic concert and other free giveaways. The Gala Opening Night Concert will be telecast nationally on a tape-delayed basis on Live From Lincoln Center at 8:00 p.m. [check local listings] and simulcast on 96.3 FM WQXR. Also, a Webcast of the complete concert will be available for viewing on nyphil.org for three weeks, beginning September 22, 2008.

General admission tickets to the free dress rehearsal will be handed out on a first-come, first-served basis starting at 8:00 a.m. on September 17 at Avery Fisher Hall. This free event is offered to the public, for the second year, by the New York Philharmonic and its Global Sponsor, Credit Suisse.

The Opening Night Gala concert, led by Music Director Lorin Maazel - who begins his seventh and final season with the Orchestra - will feature Berlioz's Roman Carnival Overture; Ibert's Flute Concerto, with Sir James Galway as soloist; and Tchaikovsky's Symphony No. 4.

For more information please visit nyphil.org