From the soaring acoustics of Carnegie Hall to hidden, candlelit sanctuaries across Manhattan, classical concerts in NYC offer an unmatched cultural experience. This November, there is so much to look forward to, including legendary guest conductors, rare operatic debuts, and innovative performances by the NY Philharmonic. Whether you’re a lifelong symphony aficionado or are looking for a relaxing night out, we’ve rounded up the must-see classical music concerts in New York right now.
Jean-Yves Thibaudet plays Liszt with the New York Philharmonic
Named the “superb pianist” by The Now York Times, Jean-Yves Thibaudet will perform with the Philharmonic this November, taking on Liszt’s Piano Concerto No. 2 and Bruckner’s Symphony No. 9. The artist-in-residence at the Chicago Symphony Orchestra is renowned for his different collaborations in film and the visual arts, and is now returning to Lincoln Center, this time under the guidance of Rafael Payare.
Gershwin’s An American in Paris — Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center
This highly anticipated concert brings together five distinguished pianists for a medley of sonatas, rondos and concertante-style works. Jean-Efflam Bavouzet, Alessio Bax, Anne-Marie McDermott, Evren Ozel, and Wu Han will take to the stage to perform pieces by Mozart, Chopin, Lutosławski, Tansman and Gershwin.
One of Candlelight’s most successful performances is their Vivaldi tribute—and we understand why. Not only are The Four Seasons super catchy, but they also combine vivid storytelling and emotional contrast, transporting us to each scene. Performed by Highline String Quartet, the series has added new concert dates at the Archdiocesan Cathedral of the Holy Trinity.
Dudamel Conducts Tosca at Carnegie Hall
Returning to the orchestra’s former venue, Gustavo Dudamel and the New York Philharmonic will present a concert rendition of Puccini’s intense opera. They will be accompanied by a powerhouse lineup of vocalists featuring Marina Rebeka, Ludovic Tézier, and Christopher Humbert Jr.
Eight Veils: Asmik Grigorian in Concert
Photo: Jonathan Tichler/Metropolitan Opera
Grigorian’s exclusive single-evening recital showcases iconic opera pieces by Puccini, Dvořák, Verdi, and Strauss, with musical accompaniment from the father-and-son piano duo of Petras and Lukas Geniušas. This performance is an especially relevant choice for vocal enthusiasts, taking place shortly after her leading role in the Metropolitan Opera’s fresh staging of Janáček’s Jenůfa.
Élisabeth Jacquet de La Guerre: Lost Airs from Versailles
If you’re looking for free classical concerts in NYC, you shouldn’t pass on this Baroque concert at St Paul’s Chapel. In a historic first, the long-lost works of a trailblazing female French composer from the era of Louis XIV will debut inside the stunning church. Brought to life by the Sonnambula ensemble, featuring Weinfield on viola da gamba alongside soprano Chloe Holgate of ModernMedieval Voices, Élisabeth Jacquet de La Guerre’s masterpieces are completely free to experience for anyone who registers in advance.
Santtu-Matias Rouvali conducts Schubert’s Great Symphony
The New York Philharmonic presents a compelling program that pairs Schubert’s monumental Symphony No. 9 with the world premiere of Kevin Puts’s Bassoon Concerto, spotlighting principal bassoonist Judith LeClair. Florence Price’s Dances in the Canebrakes, beautifully orchestrated by William Grant Still, completes the evening’s dynamic lineup.