David Bernard leads the Park Avenue Chamber Symphony in Mahler’s Symphony No. 9 at an “Inside Out” concert with audience members seated among the musicians. Photo courtesy of PACS.
In Thursday’s (12/12) Front Row Center (New York City), Edward Kliszus writes, “The DiMenna Center for Classical Music in New York City recently hosted a breathtaking performance of Gustav Mahler’s Symphony No. 9 by the Park Avenue Chamber Symphony. Under the visionary direction of David Bernard, this concert offered not only a remarkable interpretation of Mahler’s masterpiece but also an entirely innovative approach to audience engagement…. This symphony, often considered Mahler’s poignant farewell to life, resonated deeply with the audience seated throughout the orchestra. By doing so, attendees experienced the work from the musicians’ perspectives…. This approach bridged the gap between performer and listener, making the symphony’s profound themes of mortality, farewell, and transcendence all the more visceral. Each movement of Mahler’s Ninth became a unique voyage for those present, amplified by the immersive and acoustically rich setting of the DiMenna Center…. The intimate setting amplified the immersive quality of Bernard’s Inside Out concept, making each audience member feel like an integral part of the performance…. Bernard’s expressive style also fostered a strong connection between the musicians and the audience.”
