New York Philharmonic

Completly enjoyed the concert For those who love classical or those who are just experiencing the joy of classical music, I recommend the New York Philharmonic Orchestra.

Never attended an orchestra show before but I really enjoyed it. The music and talent was amazing.

The Philharmonic was fantastic as usual, as was Emmanuel Ax on the piano. Beethoven's 7th and Brahms piano concerto no. 2. The lights did go out very briefly during the performance but not sure if that was venue's fault or unavoidably weather-related. The orchestra never missed a note.

I enjoyed the musical selections and especially the violin soloist. Bramwell Tovey was delightful as always.

Beautiful venue. grounds, sounds, everything was great. What a treat! Thank you.

What a great concert, the music was excellent and the conductor was very witty and gave and excellent performance. Would recommend as the NY Philharmonic is one of the BEST!!! The solo violinist was superb!

Nothing compares to their first appearance at Bethel Woods, which was Bethel Woods Grand Opening. This concert, as well as their three previous, were almost as good. I'm looking forward to next years concert.

I was expecting something much more patriotic on the 4th of July weekend, The choices were poor for the event and they did not coordinate the fireworks (which were fair at best) with any portion of the concert BIG disappointment!!

The concert was fantastic as was the soloist, Mikhail Samonyan, Bramwell Tovey was his usual humorous self and I enjoy him more each year. I have seen all of the Philharmonic concerts since they first played at Bethel Woods and I wouldn't think of missing any of their performances.

The setting for the performance was amazing. The sun went over the hill just in time for the conductor to take the stage. The opening music selections and performance was very stress relieving. The solo violinist played so effortlessly and perfectly. The orchestra supporting him was amazing to watch and listen. The time just flew by to intermission. The Conductor was a perfect match to the orchestra. He explained what we would hear and what to watch for. He was great in relating the music to the Independance celebration. He was a good joker with the audience and the members of the orchestra. he did a good job on the Taxi hornist and the 3 Sax players that joined for the finishing pieces. My wife and I were entertained and loved the whole event.

ny philharmonic was excellent...a little boring with the first part but still very....after intermission we had the best time....the conductor was hysterical the music was great......next time they come around highly recommend everyone to see them....bring own food.....the there was horrible....lol...

Great show, and as always Bethal is accessible, and beautiful. The show had just the right amount of patriotic music, and TY for that. The soloist was spectacular. The only complaint I have is this: if you are going DONT buy the bench seats, omg how uncomfortable. Unless you have the hips of a 12 year old. We wound up on the lawn and the sound is just as good...and you can actually shift position without nasty looks from the folks in front of you lol. So either pay more for better seats, or less and reserve yourself lawn chairs. You will enjoy the show as it should be.

The grounds were great! The New York Philharmonic amazing! Great time had by all that went with us. Five adults Four kids.

What an amazing show! Very patriotic and the violin soloist was fabulous!!! Fireworks were a great finale! Bethel Woods is beautiful.

Doesn't get better than one of the best orchestras in the world at such a beautiful venue

Magnificent music as always. Weather gorgeous. Fireworks inspiring.

The entire show was very disappointing. The evening started with a 25+ minute Violin solo from Tchaikovsky that basically left the orchestra sitting on their hands doing nothing and the crowd's attention drifting away. This was followed by another 20-25+ minute piece that heavily featured the violinist but not much orchestra and then it was intermission time. Upn returning from intermission, most of the audiences attention had drifted too far away to be salvaged. The orchestra went into a medley of "Classic American tunes" but half of them where unrecognizable, possibly because of the overdone orchestration. Then the conductor asked the audience to join him in an imaginary whimsical romp around Paris while listening to Gershwin's "An American in Paris". Not really anything the local crowd could relate to. To sum it up: the night's musical presentation was sadly lacking and out of sync to anything the crowd wanted. Since we came to see the fireworks at the end, we decided to sample some of the offerings at the food court. Well, overcooked Funnel Cake and hard pretzels soured us on that experience. And the fireworks? Mediocre at best. Want a tip? Save the time and money by going to the Mighty M in Monticello and watch the fireworks from the side of the road. A much better show and its free.

The NY Philharmonic gave it everything they had. The music was beautiful, emotionally and richly played. The conductor, Alan Gilbert was excellent and encouraged them as they played so they were a well-oiled magnificent unit. The music, classical masterpieces by Beethoven and Brahams were a perfect fit for the audience, and the soloist, Emanuel Ax was privilege to hear in person and performed his piano concerto lushly and by memory. How fortunate that a Long Island family donated money to subsidize a yearly Philharmonic concert at Tilles.

The NY Philharmonic is superb. Performances were crisp and fresh sounding. Alan Gilbert's leadership supports this statement. Don't know how the musicians could be more perfect. Also a treat to hear Emmanual Axe performance of Brahm's Second Piano Concerto. Perfect evening - perfect performance.

Simply, beautiful: the venue, but also the wonderful music that moved from classical to pops. As I listened to each, it became clear that the selections were all highly American. And through the music, our unique national character. From Appalacian Spring, to West Side Story, the lovely Carousel theme, and closing with Sousa -- the evening was a celebration of us!

The Santa Barbara Bowl is a fantastic venue. From the top seats I believe you can see the ocean. The acoustics are amazing, sound just floats up. The NY Philharmonic tickets were subsidized and the tickets were only $10. Because of that many children got to hear their wonderful music, mostly for the first time. I highly recommend taking your children to hear classical music, once they can sit still for it. Conductor is outstanding!

Awesome! Nothing like it. I hope they come back next year.

This was so special. The event was extremely organized. My granddaughter loved every minute. The concert itself was just the right time length and after to be able to try out the instruments was fantastic. Totally enjoyable.. If they have it again would love to attend

The orchestra and singer were wonderful! But I would have preferred she would have sung some opera. Otherwise it was a wonderful warm evening. And the fireworks were great. We we're in the last tier of seats and they were rather uncomfortable. We took those in case of rain. But next time will upgrade.

The venue is amazing and the production equally so. A great night out. Bring some food and tailgate before the show!

My entire family sat and enjoyed the program on the lawn along with the fireworks afterward. The only suggestion I would make is that a few years ago they include actual cannons with the 1812 overture which made it fun for all. Also, during the fireworks, please turn all or most of the lights out.

The program was far better than anticipated with highly successful readings of the Tchaikowsky. ... Tovey is a fine jazz pianist, a good conductor in touch with his orchestra, and has a sharp wit in his own right with a fine subtle, cutting edge. It was nice to note that the sound system was adjusted for classical music instead of blaring per the usual broad market popular stuff. Last year it was intolerable. This year even some of the subtle passages were audible. Unusual that Bethel Woods would have personnel with the intelligence to get it right for classical work.. Worst thing. As soon as the program was over some bean head, with the volume turned absurdly high, began telling every one what to do and think as good American on their national holiday. Shouldhave done without it completely. Probably beyond the ability of management to comprehend..... The only loss in this part was that the audio system did not blow out.

great concert---only negative was the staff allowing people to be seated during the performance---very disruptive for a classical music crowd

From start to finish, this show was unforgettable. Without any introduction. the national anthem was played. Perfect! The conductor, besides being very talented was also very entertaining. The singer was wonderful, the choice of music was perfect and, of course, who cannot like fireworks? It was truly a wonderful evening.

My wife and I attended the July 7th performance to start out our July 8 40th anniversary celebration. It was an unbelievably entertaining performance. The conductor, the featured singer, the violin solos, as well as solos from the other outstanding musicians were on par with anything we've ever heard. To top the evening off, the first class fireworks display after the 1812 Overture ended an extremely enjoyable evening. I might add that the volunteers who worked the event were all friendly, efficient, and helpful. If the same show returns next year we hope to attend.

My husband and I thought the performance of the NY Philharmonic was spectacular. The conductor, Bramwell Tovey, was witty and entertaining. The orchestra was amazing, as well as soprano, Tracy Dahl. I had never been to Bethel Woods and was truly impressed with the park-like setting. We sat on a bench before the performance and listened to live Jazz at one of the cafes. The scenery was breathtaking. As far as the pavilion, every seat had a great view of the stage, including the lawn seats! Fireworks followed the performance which were top notch. We didn't have time to visit the museum but will definitely be back to do that and look forward to attending other concerts at Bethel Woods.

Wonderful concert, nice crowd, great fireworks. Look forward to seeing it again next year.

This was a wonderful concert. We enjoyed the performance of the orchestra, the program, the soloist and the conductor. We hope they all come back next year.

The New York Philharmonic is one of the greatest orchestras in the world. What a treat to hear them under the stars out on the lawn at Bethel Woods! The repertory was well-chosen, and I enjoyed the fireworks too.

Beautiful venue, brilliant performances by the orchestra members, conductor,and singer, and amazing fireworks. Absolute best way to celebrate the 4th!

Wonderfully playful conductor who connected well with the audience. The music was superb on a delightful and surprisingly cool summer night and his stories entertaining. Then the fireworks display capped off a superb evening.

Bethel Woods facility is hugh - some walking involved so it is not great for anyone with difficulties. However, they do run a suttle but the wait can be long. The pavillion is wonderful in every sense.

This is an incredible event for the whole family. It's a fantastic way to start the summer. I love that you can bring a picnic and then bring all your picnic bags into the shed with you. It's a relaxing and inviting venue. The selection of music was fun for all ages and the conductor was very entertaining.

This was a great show with great music. The evening was made even better by Mr. Covey who we found to be additional entertainment. My wife and I had a wonderful night.

Lovely venue the conductor was so entertaining beautiful music

Every thing was flawless; from printing my tickets on-line to all the friendly workers at Bethel Woods. The layout of the venue was well thought out and by the way, the New York Philharmonic was a pleasure to see and hear.

Loved Swan Lake and The 1812 Overture. Played spectacularly by the Philharmonic orchestra. Thoroughly enjoyed the fireworks at the end of the concert, too.

The Philharmonic was great. We liked the second half of the performance best. The Tchaikovsky selections were wonderful. Who doesn't love the 1812 Overture? The fireworks were spectacular, one of the best shows in the area.

WALKING THE DOG WAS MY FAVORITE PIECE ALSO REALLY LIKED 1812 OVERTUREN

Great evening of popular and classical selections ending with the magnificient 1812 overture. Bramwell Tovey once agin showed that he is not only a great conductor but his comments before and after each musical selection were informative and entertaining. tracy Dahl the guest soloist was delightful. We hope we will have the opportunity to see the great NY Philhamonic again next year.

The venue is excellent, everything is very well run and the staff are very helpful indeed. Unfortunately the crowd did not know how to behave for a classical concert and talked incessantly and loudly throughout the concert ... if anyone goes to one of these events and wants to listen to it I would suggest you get seats as close to the stage as you possibly can!

We attended last year's NY Philharmonic concert with the Marine Corps band at Bethel Woods . It was much more exciting and uplifting. We were disappointed that this year's performance did not measure up to the previous (2011) concert.

A fantastic show at an equally nice venue. The conductor is a showman as was the soloist.

Was well worth the 150 miles round trip drive to see the show and fireworks. The show was varied and the conductor very entertaining.!

The handicap access was wonderful. The people were so helpful and courteous. We had a wonderful time. Philharmonic was fantastic!

The music was really great and the fireworks were fantastic! Worth the money and the 2 hour drive!

The New York Philharmonic was great at Bethel Woods! First, the concert pavillion has such great sound quality for this type of venue, that it really makes a difference. Secondly, the Philharmonic was superb! The conductor had a nice sense of humor. I would have eliminated the opera singer. She didn't play well with the Gershwin songs. But the 1812 Overture made up for it! And the fireworks afterwards, that were put on by Bethel Woods, were by far, about the best fireworks I've ever seen! They seemed to go on forever!

Beautiful night listening to great music. Conductor made the event fun.

We had second row seats and it was a treat to see the musicians and especially the conductor display their craft. Alan Gilbert was simply amazing, every move of his hand or baton was fraught with emotion, and he had a wonderful rapport with his orchestra. The pieces chosen were unusual and alluring. The first piece, Polaris by Ades, was a 13-minute futuristic-type arrangement that was at first grating and discordant, and by the time it grew on me, it was over. The second 79-minute piece was Mahler's ninth symphony, with which I was not familiar, and was varied in its range from quietly sweet strings to rolling timpani to full orchestra crescendoes and then ending with a whisper of strings. Altogether beautiful. The only negative were the seats themselves - while the location was great the seats were banquet chairs and I thought I was paying for real seats. Don't ever accept the double or triple letter rows (I was in BBB).

This was a terrific venue to see the NY Philharmonic. Parking is easy and every seat is a great seat. The concert itself was wonderful. It is especially fun to see Alan Gilbert conduct live. He has such a magnanimous personality that comes through to the audience. The audience was a large majority of senior citizens, so we felt young in comparison. But the audience was both enthusiastic and polite.

The venue was perfect, as was the weather. The MC was knowledeable and whitty. Musically, the evening was inspiring and moving. The fireworks and appropriate background music was perfection. Reaching and exiting the venue waas better than I expected. I am handicapped. Also, as a Sabbath observer, I appreciated the fact that the event took place on Sunday night, enabling me to attend.

The music of the Philharmonic was beautiful, the fireworks were nice although I expected more from Bethel Woods. The part of the evening that was quite disturbing was the musical accompaniment to the fireworks display. Not only did it end long before the fireworks, the lyrics were very cynical. Did you just look at the titles?

The concert was absolutely wonderful. The evening turned out to be great with no rain in sight.

It was a glorious performance as always. Add the Marine Corps and what could go wrong? My only problem with Bethel these days are the prices for the food and drinks. Guess that's how they paid for the glorious fireworks.

The best 4 of july concert we have ever attended. Will go back next year.

The entire event was unforgettable. The Tschaikovsky concerto was played beautifully. The Marine Corps Band was inspiring, and the fireworks show was spectacular. Bethel Woods Center is one of the most beautiful entertainment facilities I have ever visited, and I will certainly visit again. The placement of the trees, buildings, etc is just amazing in its beauty. The Center's staff from the Parking Attendants to the ticket takers to the chair renters, to the concession staff were courteous, helpful, and friendly. Bethel Woods Center has it all.

COULD NOT FIND THE AMERICAN FLAG WHILE NATIONAL ANTHEM WAS PLAYED. IS THERE ONE? WOULD PREFER STRAIGHT CLASSICAL NY PHILHARMONIC CONCERT RATHER THAN POPS CONCERTS THAT ARE PERFORMED BY THEM FOR THE 4TH OF JULY. COULD A SECOND, COMPLETE PHILHARMONIC CONCERT BE SCHEDULED?

The concert was wonderful. The New York Philharmonics performances were beautiful. The Marine drum and bugle corp. was exceptional and both the Philharmonic and Bugle Corp.playing together was incredible!! The fireworks were a special touch to an evening of glorious music.

Inspiring, entertaining and a pleasure to watch "the best" with precision and flair. Except for a part of one too-long piece (the rest of the piece was fine) the program was superb and just enjoyable and relaxing. Most of the crowd I saw was 50+, and that probably says something for the type of people that attended.

If there is anything you might remotely want to see and it's playing at Bethel Woods, go. Great way to spend the night. World-class music...and the weather held out.

A wonderful summer event. There should be more programs like this, especially on Sunday night. Keep Friday and Saturday evenings for the "pop" crowd.

The performers were excellent. The coordination between the NY Philharmonic and the Marine Corp was very good, The directors were very good at inserting humor to the occasion. Fireworks were very good, too.

Sunday evening was magical. The weather finally cleared, the music was magnificent, the Marines went beyond their call of duty...all topped off with a spectacular fireworks show! The perfect setting to feel like a proud American on Independence Day!!!

I have always enjoyed the New York Philharmonic concerts but adding the U.S. Marine Corps Drum and Bugle Corps made the performance even better. Hats off to our young men in uniform; their playing was flawless. My granddaughter and I couldn't have had a better time.

Fantastic show what a pleasure to see them Perform together at Bethel Woods

The music was great & the venue lovely. This was our first visit for a concert & we very much enjoyed sitting on the lawn. What a nice mix between the philharmonic and the drum & bugle corps. The fireworks display was a nice touch for 4th of July weekend. I'll definitely be back.

Music, as always, was fantastic. Loved seeing the combined orchestra and Marine Corp. Only criticism: didn't care for the music with the fireworks. Also, the lights on the high poles always interfere with the fireworks.

My yearly trek to see the NY Philharmonic and watch the fireworks tor the 4th of July celebration was magnificent. Apart from the caliber of music, the music selection, and the amazing fireworks - second to NONE! - the facilities were impeccable, as was the friendliness of the staff. I love this yearly celebration at Bethel! Thank you!

Loved the beautiful works that the NY Philharmonic performed.........especially loved Joshua Bell.........would have loved if he came back for the last piece!

just disappointed that there was no encore, otherwise the show was great

Great show and firewokrs the new york philharmonic was the best

An excellent family event. Outstanding music....perfect weather...entertaining conductor. The facility was ideal...even the grass on the lawn was soft and inviting. This was a well thought-out and carefully executed event. BRAVO!