NYC Gazette

The renowned Juilliard Orchestra is set to present Mahler’s Symphony No. 3 on April 14 at Carnegie Hall, a piece it has not performed in the past two decades. Led by David Robertson, Juilliard’s director of conducting studies, the performance will also feature conducting student Valentina Paolucci. The expansive symphony will include the Juilliard Preparatory Division Chorus and Juilliard Community Chorus.

The event will highlight artists from various segments of the Juilliard community, ranging from the youngest students to alumni and staff. Mezzo-soprano Samantha Hankey, a Juilliard alumna, will be featured. The preparatory chorus consists of students aged 8 to 18 from the Music Advancement Program (MAP) and Pre-College. The Juilliard Community Chorus will make its public debut, with members that are staff, faculty, alumni, and current students. Both choruses are directed by Adrian O. Rodríguez, Juilliard’s director of community engagement.

David Robertson expressed the significance of the performance, stating, “The Juilliard Orchestra is an extraordinary musical laboratory on the highest level, and these musicians bring their energy and boundless abilities to every rehearsal. When we explore the depth and expressive richness of Mahler’s Symphony No. 3 together, we are not only preparing for a performance. We are reaching towards the soul and sense of his creation, allowing it to radiate its overwhelming beauty to all.”

Mahler's Third Symphony, lasting 100 minutes without intermission, explores themes of nature and humanity's connection. The preparatory chorus will be placed in the balconies to symbolize guiding angels. Texts for the symphony are derived from Des Knaben Wunderhorn and Nietzsche’s Also sprach Zarathustra.

Ticket information is available through the Carnegie Hall website, by phone, or at the venue’s box office.

Beyond this performance, the Juilliard Orchestra, featuring nearly 400 students, continues its active season with a lineup of esteemed conductors and partnerships with Juilliard's opera, dance, and drama divisions, as well as its participation in various renowned concerts worldwide.

The Juilliard School continues its mission to provide premier education in the performing arts under the leadership of President Damian Woetzel. Juilliard, located at Lincoln Center, offers extensive programs in music, drama, and dance, serving a diverse body of students and fostering engagements globally.