Matthias Tarnopolsky of the New York Philharmonic Returns to Korea for Special Performances

Matthias Tarnopolsky, the representative of the New York Philharmonic, reminisced about receiving an invitation to visit North Korea back in 2008, recalling, "I couldn't believe it when I received the fax. I spent the entire day discussing it in the office." This statement came during a press conference held on June 25 at the Seoul Cultural Arts Education Center in Seocho, coinciding with the New York Philharmonic's long-awaited return to Korea after 11 years. Founded in 1842, the New York Philharmonic is one of the oldest musical institutions in the United States.

During the orchestra's visit to Pyongyang in 2008, Tarnopolsky served as the deputy director of concert planning and had the unique opportunity to visit both North and South Korea. In a brief Q&A following the conference, he stated, "The New York Philharmonic has a special relationship with Korea," and vividly recalled the emotional moment when North Korean audience members shed tears during the encore performance of 'Arirang'.

Now returning as the representative, Tarnopolsky has an intriguing background, having been born in Argentina to a mother who was a pianist specializing in Spanish and South American music, and later studying in the UK. From 2018 to 2024, he served as the president of the Philadelphia Orchestra, another prestigious ensemble in the Eastern U.S., where he became a prominent figure in the American music scene. In 2023, he organized a tour in China to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Philadelphia Orchestra's visit to the country in 1973. The New York Times noted his contributions to the financial recovery of the Philadelphia Orchestra, which faced bankruptcy in 2011, through audience development and fundraising efforts.

Tarnopolsky returned to the New York Philharmonic in January as its representative. He reflected on the challenges faced by American orchestras during the pandemic, stating, "We pondered deeply about our existence during that time," and concluded that music serves as a vital 'link' connecting musicians, communities, and audiences.

Currently, the New York Philharmonic is undergoing a transitional phase. In 2022, they reopened the David Geffen Hall after renovations, and next year, they will welcome Gustavo Dudamel as the new music director. Tarnopolsky emphasized the need for orchestras today to embrace bold collaborations with versatile musicians. He cited Finnish composer and conductor Esa-Pekka Salonen, who will conduct the upcoming performances in Korea, as an example of this collaborative spirit. The New York Philharmonic will perform three concerts under Salonen's direction on June 26 at Art Center Incheon and on June 27-28 at the Seoul Arts Center.