Eating Ice Cream with the Devil

In "Pizzazz on the Podium," from the March-April 2011 issue, Richard Dyer writes that New York Philharmonic conductor Alan Gilbert ’89 "has shaken things up at an orchestra that had grown a bit stodgy" under previous conductors.

One example: a set of three lighthearted YouTube videos promoting Ligeti's avant-garde opera Le Grand Macabre, which turned out to be the unexpected hit of Gilbert's first season with the Philharmonic. View the videos:

Watch an interview in which Gilbert discusses Le Grand Macabre:

See video of Gilbert conducting Beethoven's Symphony No. 7 in Tokyo:

You might also like

A New Chapter for Harvard Arts

The Office for the Arts turns 50, and its longtime director steps down.

Education School Announces Interim Dean

Nonie Lesaux will serve as dean during the search for a new one.

Harvard Students form Pro-Palestine Encampment

Protesters set up camp in Harvard Yard.

Most popular

Harvard Students form Pro-Palestine Encampment

Protesters set up camp in Harvard Yard.

Harvard Medalists

Three people honored for extraordinary service to the University

A New Chapter for Harvard Arts

The Office for the Arts turns 50, and its longtime director steps down.

More to explore

What is the Best Breakfast and Lunch in Harvard Square?

The cafés and restaurants of Harvard Square sure to impress for breakfast and lunch.

How Homelessness is a Public Health Crisis

Homelessness has surged in the United States, with devastating effects on the public health system.

Portfolio Diet May Reduce Long-Term Risk of Heart Disease and Stroke, Harvard Researchers Find

A little-known diet improves cardiovascular health through several distinct mechanisms.