New York Philharmonic Violinist Yulia Ziskel
Chris Lee
In my latest column where I profile creatives and highlight their travel style, I had the pleasure of interviewing Yulia Ziskel, who is a violinist for the New York Philharmonic and has been a member of the first violin section since 2001.
Given that Ziskel is part of one of the world’s most famous orchestras, global travel and visiting other concert halls is part of the job. She’s also an insider when it comes to her knowledge of New York gems.
The Philharmonic kicks off its 2023-2024 on September 27th with an Opening Gala Concert featuring Yo-Yo Ma as a guest soloist and Jaap van Zweden conducting in what’s his final year as Music Director.
It’s a sold-out event, but tickets are still available for next weekend’s (September 29th to October 1st) trio of concerts featuring Joshua Bell performing his piece The Elements.
Below is my conversation with Ziskel.
Where do you currently live?
In Bergen County, New Jersey, in a small town called Dumont. I also spend a lot of time around David Geffen Hall at Lincoln Center every week for rehearsals and concerts.
What is your favorite neighborhood in NYC and why?
I love wandering around Chelsea and a bit south of there. It’s full of charm and beautiful architecture – the little streets have lots of boutiques and great places to eat or just have a glass of wine.
Can you share some of your favorite spots near the Philharmonic and what makes them so great?
There are some fantastic options around Lincoln Center! For food, one can’t go wrong with The Smith – their menu is great across the board, and it’s open late for an easy after-concert bite or drink. Also near the hall, Bar Boulud and Boulud Sud are both amazing (too bad they close early)! For a drink and a view, our regular place is Rooftop at the Empire Hotel – always accommodating, always friendly, and always open late! If you wander a bit uptown, two sister establishments, TESSA and ASSET, are absolutely wonderful, from the food to the drinks to the vibe!
The best place for a pre-or post-concert meal at any concert hall globally and why. What are the dishes to order?
I’m torn… if I tell, I won’t be able to get in! But seriously, we just came back from Paris, which has one of my favorites: La Tour de Montlhéry-Chez Denise. I have been going to this place for the past 20 years! It isn’t near the hall, Philharmonie de Paris, but you can go before or after the concert thanks to their friendly hours. Order any steak on the menu, you won’t be disappointed.
Best watering holes near concert halls around the world and the drinks to get.
There are too many… I’ll pick one that happens to be close to home: Vanguard Bar. It’s this wine bar on the Upper West Side near David Geffen Hall.
Insider tips for enjoying a classical music concert? What would make the experience better and why?
Come to the concert with an open mind. Don’t try to analyze or listen for something specific, but try to just immerse yourself in the sound. Observe various people on stage to see how they are enjoying what they do. Sometimes I start imagining colors or various images when I’m inspired by the music.
What if you’re a novice or unfamiliar with classical music?
The same “insider tips” can be very helpful for any listener! When I was very little and coming to concerts with my parents, I would find a chandelier in the hall (and it was usually one with crystals), and I’d watch the lights twinkle and change colors in those chandeliers as the music went on. I think just letting the sounds carry you through when you are new to classical music is the best way to go about it. Just keep an open mind and relax. If you space out for a minute, it’s ok – the music is still surrounding you.
What other shows are on your radar right now and why?
My husband is the new violinist with the progressive rock band KANSAS. He started in June, and I haven’t had a chance to see the band yet with my husband as a member! The band is on their 50th Anniversary Tour right now, and I’ll have my chance to see them on October 13th when KANSAS will be performing at Tilles Center for the Performing Arts in Long Island! Really looking forward to this!
Share your insider New York gems.
There is a museum on the Upper West Side which I’m not sure many people know about: the Nicholas Roerich Museum. It’s small and contains fantastic works by this amazing painter. And its open hours are limited but it’s well worth the visit!
Can you share your favorite concert halls around the world and why?
The Concertgebouw in Amsterdam, Musikverein in Vienna, Suntory Hall in Tokyo, the Berliner Philharmonie… I could go on. Our own David Geffen Hall is now a delight since reopening after extensive renovations, and actually one of my favorite halls to perform in. We also played in Taiwan this summer and the new National Kaohsiung Center for the Arts (Weiwuying) there is stunning and has wonderful acoustics!
How much time do you currently spend on the road?
It depends on the year. This is the first year since the onset of the pandemic that the NY Phil’s tour schedule has fully resumed. I would say usually about two months out of a year.
Can you share your travel essentials?
When traveling, my itinerary includes tons of walking during the day when I’m exploring and taking in the surrounding areas, rehearsals and concerts if it’s for work, and going out to dinners (of course). My essentials have to get me through a busy day! (I do tend to overpack, so I have a lot of “essentials.”) At the very least, I have to have my dresses with me – they are such easy options and can be adapted to various settings on my trips. I also like to bring pants and shoes that are comfortable and versatile yet elegant – I might be stopping by a favorite spot after a concert, after all. And speaking of – I’ve got to have my violin with me if I’m playing a concert, too.
What are your requests when you stay at a hotel or what do you look for when you’re trying to find a hotel to stay at?
Location is everything, and it can make or break the trip for me. Because I really enjoy getting to walk as much as possible, I want a hotel to be in the middle of at least one bustling neighborhood. A ton of research goes into the decision before committing to a place. I like hotels that can provide great service, and that are clean and neat. I don’t have any special asks, but I do like to request a room on a higher floor to take in the views.
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