New York Philharmonic marks 'homecoming' after pandemic cancellations

Musicians greet each other with an elbow bump during the New York Philharmonic's first concert after its recent reopening at the Alice Tully Hall in New York. Photo: AFP

Following 556 days of pandemic-inflicted cancellations and unconventional concerts, the New York Philharmonic opened its new season on Sept 17, a "homecoming" for musicians limited to live streams, one-off and outdoor shows for more than a year.

After enduring months of crisis, the Phil, one of America's oldest musical institutions, reopened its subscription season with a programme featuring Beethoven's Piano Concerto No. 4, Anna Clyne's Within Her Arms, Aaron Copland's Quiet City and George Walker's Antifonys.