“It was the first time in over a year that I could sing for a live audience, and it was emotional for me to see the crowd grow and feel the love and support coming back at me as we performed. I can’t wait for this to be the norm again!”
—First-year master’s mezzo-soprano Emily Sierra

“As I dived into playing some of my favorite music, the connection with the audience was magically created and this moment felt so long awaited. We all rejoiced and were united once again in the enchanting experience of live music.”
—Fourth-year pianist Siyumeng Wang (Pre-College ’17)

“I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to perform for a live audience, which is so rare in these challenging times. As we begin to heal from the effects of the pandemic, music can help us find comfort and consolation. I hope it helps bring us back together after such a long period of isolation and social distancing.”
—Pre-College pianist Adam Jackson

"It was heartwarming to see people stop by during the busy and bustling NYC day, even though it was raining hard, to enjoy music collectively—something we’ve all missed greatly! When the crowd started clapping and cheering in the middle of my first piece, it was so special and unforgettable as it occurred to me that the pop-up event had attracted people who don’t usually sit in concert halls. I’m so happy to have been part of bringing classical music to a broader audience. What an encouraging sign that we’ll have bigger audiences post-pandemic!"
—Pre-College pianist Harmony Zhu

Playing in this series was bittersweet and touching. We played Ligeti’s Horn Trio and were not sure if anyone would stop to watch such an unusual piece being blasted onto the streets of New York, but we were moved to see people were intrigued and listening. I forgot how different playing for real people in real time is—and I’m so grateful to be doing what I do with such amazing people.
—First-year master’s violinist Shaleah Feinstein

To be honest, I was somewhat nervous when my teacher asked if I wanted to perform as part of the pop-up series; it was going to be my first time performing in-person in over a year. It felt amazing to play again, however. There is always a certain bond with the audience that can’t quite be expressed through a computer screen. It was also very touching to see how, even given current circumstances, the musicians and the audience are still passionate about sharing the joy and beauty of music.
—Pre-College pianist Katherine Wang