Now, More Than Ever: Issue 52

In today’s Now, More Than Ever, rapturous orchestral music depicts a turbulent night giving way to the peace of dawn, the return of the sun, and—if even only for the moment—the promise of a new day. The site where the World Trade Center once stood is transformed into the backdrop for a purifying and cleansing act of renewal. A prayerful song considers the long and complex history of the home of our country’s leaders, while another acknowledges the enduring—if fragile—beauty of our lives on this planet. And a bold contemporary musical voice encourages us to “Rise up!” in a spirit of hope and resolve.

Each of us will react to the events of this week in our own way, so today, I’m opting not to add my own commentary to these choices for NMTE, but rather to leave you in peace, with your own reactions and reflections as you consider these superb performances.

Sibelius: Nightride and Sunrise

Frankfurt Radio Symphony
Paavo Järvi, conductor

(If, at the start, you ask yourself, “Where is this music going?,” stick with it. The rewards are immense.)

After the Rain

Christopher Wheeldon, choreographer
Music by Arvo Pärt (Spiegel im Spiegel)
Maria Kowroski and Ask la Cour (New York City Ballet), dancers

Bernstein/Lerner: “Take Care of This House” from 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue

Frederica von Stade, mezzo-soprano
National Symphony Orchestra
Leonard Bernstein, conductor

Thiele/Weiss: “What a Wonderful World”

Jon Batiste, vocalist and piano

Andra Day and Jennifer Decilveo: “Rise Up”

Andra Day, vocalist