Carnegie Hall (New York City)

Carnegie Hall is the most historic and prestigious concert stage in the US, opening its doors to the New York public for the first time in 1891. It exudes over a century of colourful musical history having hosted everything from classical orchestras and vaudeville shows to legendary performances by the likes of Bill Haley and the Comets, the Beatles and Pink Floyd. The main auditorium is expansive, with a capacity of over 2,000 and features a renaissance-style interior in which elegant white and gold furnishings adorn the hall, crowned with a huge vaulted ceiling. Music lovers on a New York City break can savour the legendary acoustics of the Carnegie Hall, which are among the best in the world.

 

The Carnegie Hall is still noted as New York's premier classical music venue and offers highbrow yet accessible culture, with a large range of educational programs and concerts aimed primarily at young music lovers. Kids on a weekend break in New York City can spend a fascinating day following the history of Carnegie Hall through short animated films, making music in hands-on sessions or expressing their creativity through song and dance. An interactive introduction into the history of African American music is the most popular program for teens, and local high school students perform regular family concerts throughout the year.

 

The Carnegie Hall is an inspiring attraction, regardless of whether you’ve come to see performances or just to marvel at its grandiose. You can take a guided tour through a century of popular American culture and music. The lobby is adorned with numerous signed photos and memorabilia from previous performers such as George Gershwin, Duke Ellington and Judy Garland, all the way back to Antonin Dvorak. Anyone on a New York City short break should make for the Carnegie Hall during one of its illustrious annual musical festivals. These often include film screenings, lectures, readings and museum exhibits, which accompany everything from Japanese and Chinese classical music to African American gospel and blues.