Gershwin, Bernstein & More

The National Symphony Orchestra makes its first appearance at the Hollywood Bowl, ever, under Music Director Gianandrea Noseda, celebrating the multitudes contained within the idea of America. Bernstein’s beloved Symphonic Dances from West Side Story start the night on a vigorous note, drawing rhythms and melodies from mambo, swing, cha-cha, and other popular musical forms. Gershwin’s An American in Paris continues the theme, bringing brash American swagger and jazz-age influences to its French subject. The evening closes Dvořák’s iconic rendering of America in his Ninth Symphony, “From the New World.” Inspired by Indigenous melodies and Black spirituals seen through the eyes of a Czech immigrant, the tune-filled work brilliantly evokes the diverse country for which it was nicknamed. This performance is generously supported by Pasadena Showcase House for the Arts.