When Jaap van Zweden mounts the podium in front of the New York Philharmonic at David Geffen Hall, the orchestra’s new music director gives off a palpable, dynamic energy—he has a commanding presence that stands out among his peers. Sitting behind the desk in his office on a December morning shortly after a rehearsal, clad in his trademark black, van Zweden is friendly and just as energetic. He is eager to talk about his experiences, to explain where he comes from as a musician and a person. He seems a half step further into the future than everyone else around him, yet unhurried about his ambitions for the Philharmonic and its place in New York City.
Soul Connection
An interview with Jaap van Zweden
