NY Phil - Interlochen Partnership


In March 2023, 131 Interlochen Arts Academy students traveled to New York City to perform the world premiere of “MUKTI: A Movement of Liberation” at David Geffen Hall and explore the city’s vibrant arts and culture ecosystem.

During the weeklong tour, students performed side-by-side with musicians from the New York Philharmonic—many of whom are Interlochen Arts Camp or Arts Academy alumni—observed classes at Martha Graham Dance and Alvin Ailey; toured the Whitney Museum, Guggenheim Museum, and Museum of Modern Art (MOMA); attended Broadway shows; visited Ellis Island; and worked with young artists from partner organizations across the greater New York City metro area.

Below, we share a behind-the-scenes look at this once-in-a-lifetime experience—from first rehearsal to final bow.

Want to participate in future touring opportunities? Learn more about Interlochen Arts Academy and start your application today. Applications remain open for the 2023-24 academic year–don’t wait to see where Interlochen can take you.

A Movement of Liberation

On March 3, 2023, 131 Interlochen Arts Academy students shared their unique perspective on liberation with the world premiere of “MUKTI: A Movement of Liberation” at David Geffen Hall in New York City. Listen in as student collaborators, faculty, and President Trey Devey share what this moment meant to them and get a behind-the-scenes look at this once-in-a-lifetime touring opportunity.

मुक्ति : MUKTI Behind-the-Scenes

MUKTI class 7
MUKTI class 9
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MUKTI class 2
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MUKTI class 10

Interlochen Mukti News and Stories

The Interlochen Arts Academy Orchestra performs MUKTI at David Geffen Hall.
From the Desk of Trey Devey: An Unforgettable Experience

President Trey Devey reflects on Interlochen Arts Academy's amazing performance at David Geffen Hall and celebrates our growing partnerships with New York-area arts organizations.

Three male students dressed in warm coats stand by the water, with the New York skyline behind them.
Scenes from the New York Tour

Students performed on world-class stages, toured New York arts organizations, and explored some of the city's most famous attractions.

Dr. Leslie Dunner
Interlochen Arts Academy Orchestra Conductor Dr. Leslie B. Dunner previews Interlochen’s performance with the New York Philharmonic on ‘Arts Engines’

Dunner and host Aaron Dworkin (IAA 86-88) discussed the rigorous academic and artistic training at Interlochen Arts Academy, representation in classical music, the NY Phil Interlochen Scholars program, and more on the nation’s most widely viewed arts program.

John Wineglass
Behind the Score: 'Unburied, Unmourned, Unmarked: Requiem for Rice' by John Wineglass

Musicologist and Interlochen Public Radio Music Director Dr. Amanda Sewell shares the story behind the first number of the Interlochen Arts Academy Orchestra's side-by-side performance with musicians from the New York Philharmonic.

Mary D. Watkins
Behind the Score: 'Soul of Remembrance' by Mary D. Watkins

Musicologist and Classical IPR Music Director Dr. Amanda Sewell contextualizes the second work of the Interlochen Arts Academy Orchestra's side-by-side performance with musicians from the New York Philharmonic.

Jonathan Bailey Holland
Behind the Score: 'Equality' by Jonathan Bailey Holland

Musicologist and Classical IPR Music Director Dr. Amanda Sewell contextualizes the third work of the Interlochen Arts Academy Orchestra's side-by-side performance with musicians from the New York Philharmonic.