Lately, one can observe a powerful transformation within the choice of venues for classical music performances. The economy may influence the real estate market in New York City negatively, but trends in the classical music scene are still following its most important rule: location, location, location.
These days, it seems that in order to be noteworthy, a musical event has to happen at a nightclub, preferably at a downtown Manhattan address. There are already definite favorites, chosen by some illustrious artists. Managers and public-relations agencies grasp the opportunity for a fresh approach for their artists' images, and thus have started booking events for CD releases and special performances.
There is an exciting cross-pollination happening when classical musicians come downtown to perform, and the downtown nightclub scene expands its acceptance of classical music. Previously, there was a clear divide between uptown classical events and downtown music. Now the classical performers and their fans can be cool too.
Two clubs that are embracing this trend are Le Poisson Rouge and the Highline Ballroom, both located in lower Manhattan. Known as venues for rock and pop music, their programs have been extended to include classical musicians.
Owned by a classical cellist and a violinist/composer team, Le Poisson Rouge underwent a complete renovation on the historical site of the Village Gate. A sophisticated sound system was put in place, as well as a state of the art performance space with flexible configuration of seating arrangements, engineered by the legendary John Storyk, according to the club's website.
Called a born impresario by Alex Ross in The New Yorker, the artistic director of Le Poisson Rouge, Ronen Givony, is a groundbreaker in bridging disparate entities in the music world and creating something new and different in the process. Prior to working at the club, Givony was employed by the Chamber Society of Lincoln Center as a grant writer. During this time he founded the Wordless Music Series which was dubbed by Minnesota National Public Radio as common ground for classical and rock music.
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Article comments
1 - ilona oltuski
There is a typo correction : Stravinsky for the composer - sorry
2 - Christopher Rose
I have fixed your typo for you, Ilona.
3 - Roger B
In the 1950s in Minneapolis (a town that has always had innovative Fine Arts) there were several modest bars that featured live classical music.
4 - Romy O.
What an eye-opening article! There is a sociologist, Bourdieu, that points out the shift from the "upper class" distinguishing themselves by consuming only high art to the more modern culturally open palate - consuming all art. Perhaps we are ushering in yet a new era in which the differences between "highbrow" and "lowbrow" art will disappear completely. It will be fascinating to be able to watch the transition in motion.
5 - Dan_e
I cameup with that idea a few months ago..I want to make a bar in my country, were exquisite foods are served, wine is served as well as beer, and that has a piano and stage for cultural performances....while the play or the artist is not showing there will be a DJ playing classical music at very high volume!Silly me..