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Carnegie Hall
Categories: Arts & Entertainment Music Venues Nightlife Music Venues Arts & Entertainment Performing Arts Music Venues, Performing Arts [Edit]
881 7th AveNew York, NY 10011
Neighbourhood: Midtown West
(212) 247-7800
- Nearest Transit:
-
57 St - 7 Av (N, Q, R)
57 St (F)
7 Av (B, D, E)
- Hours:
Mon-Sat 11 am - 6 pm
Sun 12 pm - 6 pm
- Parking:
- Street
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Price Range:
-
$$$
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Music:
- Live
- Best Nights:
- Fri, Thu, Sat
- Happy Hour:
- No
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Smoking:
- No
- Coat Check:
- Yes
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Good For Dancing:
- No
- Ambience:
- Classy
- Has TV:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
About This Business:
We have affordable, high quality shows seven nights a week. Our original comedy videos have garnered the national spotlight. We also run the first… read more »
82 reviews for Carnegie Hall
82 reviews in English
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Review from Joe L.
3/9/2012
Do you know how to get to Carnegie Hall? Practice!
If you're reading this review, you probably know a little bit about what goes on at Carnegie Hall. If you're looking for an enormous corned beef or pastrami sandwich, you're in the wrong place. However, you will find one of the most historic and amazing venues in the world, let alone this fair city. Calling it exquisite would not be hyperbolic.
I am not going to regale you with stories of the venue's layout, the virtuosic performances that have graced the hall, nor what it feels like to perform on that stage. I will say, if you have the opportunity to see a performance there, go. Interestingly, with the advent of Bowery Presents and other more contemporary booking agencies, Carnegie Hall has begun hosting some alternative programming relative to what the building is historically known for. For example, Jay-Z recently played a two-night stand here, which was formerly unheard of.
The one tidbit I'll leave you with is this; you can buy tix via their website or you can buy tix at their box office in person. The box office doesn't crash or freeze up when it gets overloaded with visitors... -
Review from Melissa F.
Upper East Side, Manhattan, NY
4/27/2012
how do you get to Carnegie Hall...?
what a great venue. i had the pleasure of seeing the Philadelphia Orchestra (they performed Brahms's Symphony No. 3, Schumann's Symphony No. 3, "Rhenish," and Webern's Six Pieces, Op. 6) here tonight in the Stern Auditorium and it was absolutely amazing. our seats were in the front row of the second tier balcony, and the sound was great. the auditorium is beautiful, and the history of this venue in quite palpable. everyone should be so lucky to enjoy a night at Carnegie Hall! -
Review from Alyssa K.
4/14/2012
I was lucky enough to come to Carnegie Hall my first two times with free orchestra-level seats. Needless to say, those seats were very comfortable. My balcony seats last night were miserably awful.
First, the music. I attended the movie music-themed New York Pops concert. The music was excellent, as they played film scores from Academy Award-winning films (everything from Tara's Theme from Gone with the Wind, to the Love Theme from The Godfather), as well as a John Williams 80th birthday tribute that included his works from Saving Private Ryan, Harry Potter, and one of my all-time favorites, Schindler's List. The fun-filled night wrapped with songs from Episodes 1-4 of Star Wars and an encore of the upbeat jazzy Cantina song. It was a terrific casual concert. Overall, I've always enjoyed the performances at Carnegie.
However, the seats sucked. We sat in row M of the balcony. The legroom was practically nonexistent. I'm only 5'4", but my legs were right up against the seat in front of me. I just prayed I wouldn't accidentally knee the head of the woman in front of me. I had no room to reposition my legs, cross them, anything. When I stood up during intermission, my left knee was actually in pain, and I slowly hobbled down the stairs on my way to the bar. My 6'0" boyfriend fortunately had the aisle seat, and no one was seated in front of him, so he had a tiny bit of room to move around if his legs started getting tired, but he still hated the seats. It made the crappy legroom on a plane feel extremely luxurious.
The view was fine (not like views really matter when you're attending a classical concert), and the sound carried itself well to this nosebleed area. Unless you're on a really tight budget or you're under 5'0", though, I would choose a different part of the Hall to enjoy your concert. -
Review from Fancypants X.
San Francisco, CA
5/18/2012 1 Check-in Here
To impart some class to our usual seedy evening activities in NYC, BFF & I checked out New York Pops perform at Carnegie Hall. Popular movie scores from Superman, Breakfast at Tiffanys, Harry Potter (wasn't familiar to me b/c I've never seen the films!), Star Wars, Schindler's List, etc were enthusiastically played. I didn't know I enjoyed symphony-type entertainment until I found myself sitting on the edge of my seat & feeling melancholy when each score came to an end. I wish it didn't have to end! The encore performance was a mish-mash of Disney favorites. My first time at Carnegie Hall was an unforgettable part of this past pilgrimage to our holy land (aka gotham.)
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Review from Vivian H.
2/13/2012
Funny, I thought there would be more reviews of this place. After all, it is pretty famous. I am only the 79th person to review it. I am pretty surprised!
OK, yes this is a NYC staple. If you live here, you must go experience it. If you want to impress a date, this is your spot.
I have been here a few times and each time I come here, I fall in love all over again.
I love the soft lightness you feel here, no matter where you are sitting. The acoustics are just absolutely amazing here.
I came here Saturday night to hear Orpheus Chamber Orchestra with soloist Jean-Yves Thibaudet. What a treat!
My only gripe is the lines for the female bathroom. It always takes the whole intermission time to go.
Overall, an amazing experience. You must do this venue when in NYC! -
Review from Anna V.
2/21/2012 1 Check-in Here
So funny story....
I sometimes wear glasses. Particularly, I wear glasses when I need to see far. For example, I wear glasses when I go to classical music concerts and sit approximately right under the roof.
So when I got a last minute invite to Carnegie Hall performance, unfortunately I did not have my oculars with me. A friend, reminded me however, that I don't really need to listen to the orchestra perform, right? Well, yes that's right. How superficial of me to want to see what others are wearing/looking/behaving, etc. But even the opera singers still dress up, and there's scenery and everything, even though its really about the operatic voices and ranges, no?
Nevertheless, towards the end of the performance my curiosity got the best of me. I am still young enough (if that is the only valid reason) that I am actually curious about how the star pianist of the night looks like. Old? Young? Pretty? etc.
Fortunately for me, that same friend wears glasses (albeit of a much stronger variety, i.e. he will likely trip himself without any). So just as the applause begin I swiftly "borrow" my friend's glasses (even at the risk of overpowering my own eyes with the strength of his lenses) and first I discovered that they're actually not that strong for my sight. Sigh, I need an update in my prescription. I also discovered that the star pianist of the night is also slightly older and wiser than I expected him to be (No I was not being an ageist, I am just sharing my observation).
And so when I share my surprise with my friend, he turns his head almost robotically and says "I wouldn't know, I CAN'T SEE!" At that point I realize that he was sitting patiently and quietly trying not to trip himself because he can't see anything. Because he was probably also curious to look at the Pianist who was sitting with his back towards us for the entire performance, and so this would be the first time that we would have the opportunity to see his face.
We were both hysterically laughing at our mutual unfortunateness of lack of perfect vision. As he shared with me later, it was good that we can still make each other laugh after years of relationships, marriages, divorces, kids, aging parents, etc. -
Review from Stephanie Y.
Jersey City, NJ
1/8/2012
Carnegie Hall is New York legacy, icon and staple in which I had the honor of attending an amazing show there last night. The show was 5 stars and most likely would have been 5 stars anywhere (Preservation Hall Jazz Band... check 'em out) but, the sheer fact it was at Carnegie Hall blew my mind. The acoustics were amazing, and I was literally the last seat, in the last row in the balcony. I got like 12 nosebleeds. That didn't stop me from hearing the amazing quality of music taking over.
The seats are tight, my man is short so he had no worries but, homeboy next to me was definitely a little uncomfortable for the 2 hour seating. However, the seats are red velvet plush and comfortable. I am not sure if there is an elevator but, we hiked up the 4-5 flights of stairs and I was a little out of breath when I got to my seat so, I can only imagine some other people may have been a bit gruntled.
As this was some New Orleans jazz people were standing in their seats, heading to the balcony to shake their booties to the sweet tunes from the brass. It was a sight to see.
As a person who has been to quite a few shows and plays in theaters all over the city, Carnegie Hall may have been the cherry on my theater sundae. I look forward to the next opportunity where I can shake my little moneymaker all over Carnegie Hall.Listed in: Quintessential NYC
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Review from John S.
1/16/2012
I want to write a review that's different from what most people would write regarding Carnegie Hall. Aside from the exceptional musical experiences and the grandiose music hall that became an icon of New York City, the staff at Carnegie exceeds the expectations and treats every visitor with respect.
About three years ago in my last year in high school, I had to complete a historical capstone project along with a research paper and presentation. A friend of mine and I teamed up and decided that we'll complete our capstone project on Carnegie Hall. We were in contact with an archivist named Gino Fransesconi and honestly, I wasn't sure how much attention he was going to give to two high school students. But was I in for a surprise. Mr. Fransesconi gave us a tour of all the music halls and gave us a thorough historical account of how Carnegie Hall came to existence. Afterwards, we all sat down for about half an hour in one of the halls while he passionately explained the historical events of Carnegie Hall and the type of people who passed by.
Not only have I gained an utmost respect for Carnegie Hall because of virtuoso musicians and the piano prodigies, but it made me realize what kind of people the Hall employs to carry on the legacy. -
Review from Lara G.
12/22/2011 1 photo
Through the years, whenever I go to Carnegie Hall, I am reminded that there is much beauty that I need to experience and re-experience. This year it was Musica Sacra's performance of Handel's Messiah. Musica Sacra was founded by conductor Richard Westenburg and it delivers professional choral performances of utmost caliber. We secured our orchestra tickets early so that our seats are right up front,dead center. In addition to the excellent lighting, one of the great things about Carnegie Hall is that the seats and the floor elevation are so designed that even if the person in front of you is tall, you can still see the stage. Also, the restrooms have quite a number of stalls so it doesn't get too crowded and the line goes quickly.
Messiah is dubbed as the most famous oratorio written and it is quite astounding that since its creation in 1741, its beauty continues to captivate people all over the world. Although I have seen it a handful of times before, something about this night just grabbed me. This performance at Carnegie Hall had the choir of St. John's the Divine. There were several times that I closed my eyes to listen especially at Leslie Fagan's lyric soprano because it was mind-blowing. No, I didn't fall asleep as I made sure that I took a nap and had an espresso before the show. :) By the way, Kevin Deas' bass evoked the loudest applause. Lastly, Kent Tritle was fascinating to watch as he conducted because his hands seemed so gentle and yet commanding and clear in communicating with the orchestra. It just reminded me that strength and power do not necessarily exclude gentleness. :)
Catch a performance of Handel's Messiah. It would just be the best decision you've ever made. :) -
Review from Hanna K.
1/8/2012
Very old theater but so clean! The classical music talent that Carnegie Hall brings to stage is top notch, and it's designed so the sound is transmitted to you crisply and clearly - without ever being too loud.
Great place for people who enjoy classical music -
Review from Victoria R.
Lancaster, CA
12/20/2011
The soul of a musician always knows when it's home.
As to how you could even glance in the direction of this place and NOT give it 5 stars is beyond me.
I had the pleasure of watching my " brotha from another motha" play piano here. Watching him was one of the proudest moments of my life. Everthing about this place ooozes sophistication and talent. From the way the hall smells to the stage, lighting, staff just everything.
I recommend arriving early, especially if you are picking up tickets- be prepared to have it blow your mind. -
Review from Melissa B.
Manhattan, NY
12/30/2011 1 Check-in Here
Wow, what a beautiful, classic, classy music hall. Much more elegant, traditional, and less touristy then Radio City.
We were very pleased with our experience. We watched a string orchestral performance, which was absolutely breathtaking. Reading through the artists bios, it was clear we were seeing some of the best performers in the world.
I highly recommend this hall if you want to experience that classic music hall feel and listen to some of the best artist in the world.
Get dressed up and enjoy a night out!! -
Review from Linda A.
Manhattan, NY
12/19/2011
I really don't understand why some folks can't give this hall a five star. Been here so many times and still, it's a five star for me. Great artists and performances. They are remarkable. This is a place you're sure you'll be back.
Carnegie Hall. From the structure itself, it is full of class. Stunning. -
Review from Philip L.
1/8/2012
Another quintessential nyc cultural experience
As someone who doesnt follow music that much, its hard to enjoy it as much, especially the contemporary classical pieces. We went to see one, and it was funny because we both feel asleep at some point, and i noticed others in the audience were snoozing too.
Theres no need to pay a lot for tickets closer to the stage most of the time, since you are just listening. -
Review from May W.
Flushing, NY
12/21/2011
How does one review Carnegie Hall? beats me.
But here it is:-
I was here in Nov for Jason Mraz's tour with Toca Rivera.. and let me tell you, it's an experience in itself. It was also my first time at a place like Carnegie Hall, and I was really fascinated to be there. Although I did not have *the best* seat (I was somewhere in the upper levels, and kind of blocked views), it was still amazing to be there.You could basically just sit back, close your eyes, and just be drifted into another world with his voice. It's more of a show to be heard, not seen.
There was a 5 minute intermission in between, but it seems as though the couple sitting next to me did not realize it was just a break, because they got up and left.. and did not return for the second half of the show :/
All in all, I'd say if you get a chance to go, don't hesitate. Just go! -
Review from Allison C.
New York, NY
12/22/2011 1 Check-in Here
Sitting in a historic theater whilst listening to the New York Pops perform holiday music with John Pizzarelli, Jessica Molaskey, and the Essential Voices USA choir easily ranks as one of my favorite holiday memories of all time, and this happened less than a week ago. That's how fantastic it was.
Even in the balcony, the music floated up and enveloped me. I felt as if I was front row center. Just knowing the history of the building, knowing that what I was watching would go down as another chapter in said history...it was just an engaging experience altogether.
Oh, and can we talk about the free Ricolas? Lovely! -
Review from Joli R.
Brooklyn, NY
12/7/2011
I felt inspired to write this review, after I read the review my friend had written. I'm not sure how one would review Carnegie Hall, I mean, it's Carnegie Hall, the name speaks for itself. I will say this, it was much bigger then I expected, considering my seats were high up in the balcony, this was not lost on me, but the acoustic are simply amazing. It really didn't matter where I was sitting.
I went to Jason Mraz, who is amazing, totally recommend that you see him in concert if you get the chance. This is his venue. He did an acoustic tour and it was simply out of this world. All you had to do was seat back and listen and let the music take you away. Because it was Jason and an acoustic tour, I think the seats I had were just fine, although it would of been nice to see he close up, but otherwise I have no compliants. It was a great evening with friends, music, Jason Mraz and Toca Rivera at Carnegie Hall...does life get much better then this? -
Review from Anthony M.
New York, NY
10/23/2011 1 Check-in Here
Arrive early so you don't have to wait for the artist to finish a piece.
One of the most amazing concert halls out there. Perfection, glamorous, and class. Great talented musicians will have graceful timing and artistry to give world reknowned performances. This is a must!Listed in: The Places I Go Out To Play
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Review from Eric K.
Jersey City, NJ
2/9/2012 1 Check-in Here
Beautiful inside great acoustics
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Review from Antonella M.
New York, NY
8/10/2011 1 photo
How could someone not give Carnegie Hall 5 stars? It's perfection... I have seen so many performances here and I have tried to find flaws or ways of making Carnegie Hall better but have failed each time (fine maybe cheaper refreshments but that's everywhere).
The private booths up top are worth the splurge, something about looking at everyone below you that really gives you a sense of accomplishment in life... ahh the little things in life. Bring your camera and sneak in your snacks or drinks, big purses are not frowned upon :) -
Review from Rebecca L.
West Hollywood, CA
5/25/2011
It's never even crossed my mind to review something such as Carnegie Hall on Yelp, but I recently stumbled across some old pictures while cleaning, and remembered that this place is magical.
Having the opportunity to perform in the Stern Auditorium several years back was one of the fonder memories in my past. I'm a big appreciator of music, and to be able to showcase mine in one of the most beautiful music halls in the country is...well, humbling to say the least. The acoustics in the hall are perfect- even simply talking in it gives your (my) normally mundane voice a melodious ring. The architecture of the interior is gorgeous, classy, and also fantastically lit.
I'd suggest all lovers of New York, architecture, and music to pay Carnegie Hall a visit at some point. It's really quite a sight to see. :) -
Review from Leigh K.
San Diego, CA
11/30/2011
I don't know why I feel inclined to do this review. We're talking about Carnegie Hall, as in THE Carnegie Hall. And who am I again? Yeah, that's right... it doesn't matter.
Just saw Jason Mraz here when he did an acoustic tour with Toca Rivera, his percussionist (who does some incredible harmonies too). It was pretty phenomenal. We didn't have the best seats, or anywhere near close to the best seats, but it was magical to see a concert here. The acoustics are pretty near perfection. What I love is that when you close your eyes, it doesn't matter where you're sitting-- you get lost and carried away in the beauty of the music. It is so crisp and clean, and as I sat in my seat, at the tippy-top-tip of the auditorium, I couldn't help but feel small. Small because there were so many seats and I was only in one of them, small because I couldn't see the stage very well, so I knew I was little, and small because the people who got floor level seats must have been much more important and had much better connections than me. That being said, this building and venue has featured some of the biggest names in musical history. It seems to me that after attending a concert here-- an amazing concert-- that there is good reason this venue tops the list. I think I would fear for my life if I gave it less than five stars. It would be like going to a Yankee game at Yankee Stadium and cheering for the opposing team. BIG mistake. -
Review from Shoesoffnrun R.
New Hyde Park, NY
1/13/2012
I went to see the London Philharmonic a few weeks ago. Let me just say that by no means will you ever see me listening to classical music on my own. However, when you pair this gorgeous legendary building with some of the worlds best musicians, I couldn't help but be enchanted! Everyone needs to put this place on their bucket list, it is the quintessential New York experience.
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Review from Bobby D.
4/5/2011
One of the best auditoriums I've been to!. Great sound acoustics from the shell/conical shape of the auditorium itself. Very classy with red cushioned seats, and the overall presentation of the place was very refreshing.
One thing I didn't like was that they didn't allow you to take pictures. I got called out for having my iPhone on playing words with friends. Security, PLEASE TAKE IT EASY. ITS NOT LIKE THE WORLD IS GOING TO END IF I PLAY SCRABBLE ONLINE. But they're only doing their jobs.
I went with a friend to see another friend perform classical hymns. Not exactly sure how to describe it, but it was like a verbal massage - very soothing after a long day's work. Therapy to my ears. Definitely recommended to everybody with a bucket list in NY! -
Review from Kassy M.
4/8/2011
Music venues cannot get more beautiful and historical than Carnegie Hall. Not only is it aesthetically gorgeous, but it is sonically amazing as well.
I came here for the Tibet House Benefit Concert in 2007. Performers included Philip Glass, Patti Smith, Michael Stipe, Ben Harper, Laurie Anderson, Deborah Harry, Lou Reed, etc. Considering the number of famous artists, the ticket price was extremely cheap ($40).
However, I did not attend this concert for those artists. I could not have cared less about them! I went to see Sigur Ros, a phenomenal band from Iceland who creates beautiful music that sounds like it came from heaven. Though they only performed for 20 minutes and only played an acoustic set, it was still very well worth the $40. The singer, Jonsi's inexplicably angelic voice transferred so beautifully in this venue! I am pretty sure every single person listening to their performance had a mind blowing spiritual experience. -
Review from Rachel K.
Brooklyn, NY
11/1/2010 12 Check-ins Here
Carnegie Hall = gorgeous, beautiful, unreal. Come hererience some of the best music-making you'll ever hear. Oftentimes it can be magical.
Carnegie Hall (Stern Auditorium/Perelman Stage) - the largest of the halls, seats up to 2804 with FIVE levels of seating. Architecturally stunning, acoustically easily one of the best, if not THE best concert hall in the world. I've seen concerts here that vary from the Vienna Philharmonic to Chris Thile and Edgar Meyer, and they have all been equally different but wonderfully enjoyable experiences. Classy, elegant, timeless - yet functions magnificently as the center of the musical scene. Talk about fear of heights when you're all the way up on the balcony!
Weill Recital Hall - a beautiful and intimate hall perfect for chamber music, solo recitals, master classes, etc. Seats 268.
Zankel Hall - the newest hall opening in 2003 and with a versatile function. Seats 599.
I've seen many enjoyable concerts in both Weill and Zankel. Carnegie Hall is nice, but there's always something extra special about experiencing music-making in an intimate, personal setting.
Plus, Carnegie offer $15 student tickets on subscriptions and $10 student rush tickets depending on availabilities. Whether or not you're visiting or living in New York, this landmark hosts various events that are a MUST to experience!!!!Listed in: Let's dine, wine, and shine in…
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Review from Vicky C.
3/16/2011 5 photos
Ah Carnegie Hall. I've only gone twice, but I know I will go back.
The first time I went Mozart, Beethoven and Brahms was performed. The second time it was Mozart, Harrison Birtwistle and Bartok. Needless to say the first time was the better.
But then again that applies to most things......
Both times I bought the balcony seats. I didn't quite notice how cramped the seats are the first time. Must have been too entranced to noticed. But the second time I couldn't stop moving around. I'm like 5'3", if I'm feeling like an awkward pretzel I dare not think what those taller than me fared. At least the cushions were uber comfy.
Tip: If you're a student you get a discount. If you purchase the tickets rush there's a discount. If you read the Metro or AMNY you're likely to find a discount. I got a 60% off. -
Review from Vivian L.
Manhattan, NY
12/9/2011 1 Check-in Here
At the Japan Rising Concert. The koto and flute are so relaxing, I'm having a hard time keeping my eyes open. The music is beautiful though. Wish they would let me sneak in Starbucks.
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Review from Shelly A.
1/24/2011
Just saw Aziz Ansari here.
This is an amazing venue. Obviously its legendary, but you can see why. The whole stage area is so lit up, and the decor is to die for.
But what's with the large bowl of Ricola? -
Review from Kelly M.
Closter, NJ
11/18/2011 1 Check-in Here
We went to two shows there last week! Expect a smallish venue with a lot of class. The seats are sooo small though! I felt a little claustrophobic!
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Review from Ron C.
12/10/2010
I never thought that I would be doing a reviewing Carnegie Hall. I went here last year for a GAP Red event featuring Gavin Friday and friends.
His friends that were apart of this were Courtney Love, Bono, Scarlet Johansen and many more.
I got tickets here from my boss and I couldn't say no. We had balcony seats and had a good view of the stage. I was sitting next to guy that started to blaze a joint and I thought it was funny. We are in Carnegie Hall and this guy is smoking weed.... Nice!
The highlight of the night was a special guest who was introduced my Bono. It was Lady Gaga wearing a fishnet leotard and "X" on her nipples. She sang a rendtion of Poker Face on the piano. This performace was right after her SNL gig the other night.
I had a great time and saw a lot of famous people. It was a good night. -
Review from Audrey J.
11/20/2007
Damn, son. You know a place GOTS to be CLASSY when they have free tampons and maxi pads* in the bathroom.
...then again, the muted tones of cream (because heaven help them if we were to call it that plebian color "WHITE"), the cavernously echoing marble lobby, and the two massive crystal chandeliers bigger than a Toyota that illuminate the chamber music hall may have already tipped you off to that little fact.
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* -- TMI, boys? Deal with it. :PListed in: You Rock My World, Short & [Sometimes] Sweet
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Review from Jenna S.
Chicago, IL
2/25/2009
Oh, hi. I performed here. Do I have to say more?
I guess I should. The theater is beautiful. I didn't get to go anywhere that the audience did, but I could see from the stage that the theater is comfortable and cozy. My mom said she really enjoyed the experience. She said it was much nicer (duh) than the Lyric in Chicago. The architecture was beautiful but since I'm not an expert, I'm not really sure what it looked like. The theater was just nicely and beautifully built.
The acoustics were amazing - I could hear everything and there seemed to be an almost perfect balance from where I was standing. My mom said it was the best concert she'd ever seen us perform but I have a feeling that a lot of it has to do with where we were.
The staff were friendly and super informative - a few times we got lost in the backstage area and someone kindly directed us back to our dressing rooms. There was water a plenty for all of the performers as well as a cool little reception with hors d'oeuvres for everyone a few hours before the show.
The next time I come to NYC I'll be sure to stop in and see something here - the theater is great and the sound is beautiful. -
Review from Jen K.
11/18/2009
This is a classy venue and respect must be paid.
Our trip to New York revolved around seeing a symphony performance in this hall. It was everything I hoped for and more. Although, it would have been even better if I purchased tickets in one of the boxes. Not only do they provide a wonderful view of the stage and performers, but they have individual coat closets. And well, the mind wanders...
We chose less expensive seats in the Dress Circle and fortunately our view was not obstructed by any of the pillars on that level. I think perusing the seating chart before you buy is incredibly important at this venue.
One of the things that sets Carnegie Hall apart is the level of performers they are able to attract. The performance that we saw featured Yo-Yo Ma in addition to the symphony, a choir and opera singers.
At intermission, we went down to the stage and visited with my cousin who is a member of the symphony. It is really stunning to take in the hall from that vantage point. At the end of the performance we wanted to poke our heads in again and the ushers shooed us out. They rush you out of the building like cattle, so if you want to take an informal tour, make sure you do that early in the evening.
No matter where you sit, I recommend you stop by the first or second tier box levels. You'll get a peek into those sexy boxes, see photos of past performers line the halls and you can pick up a Riccola from one of the dispensers. Believe me, you don't want to cough or have your cell phone go off during a performance. It would ruin the romance.Listed in: In a New York state of mind
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Review from Sam P.
New York, NY
12/11/2006
I went to a recital here last week and I felt compelled to Yelp about such an amazing institution. Not only is Carnegie hall a stunning example of acoustic perfection and architecural glory, it is also a wonderful organization devoted to furthering the careers of established artists, giving interesting performance opportunities to lesser known and up and coming artists, and establishing a connection between musicians from around the world and all different backgrounds. Just walk down 7th Ave. at 57th Street and you'll see the pictures of everyone who's performing there this season. I love that's it's a great mix of famous names and people I've never heard of.
The recital I went to (the sublime Mezzo, Stephanie Blythe) was in Zankel Hall - their newest small venue in the basement. On the wall were pictures of artists as varied as Ian Bostridge, Emmylou Harris, Audra MacDonald and the Brooklyn Chorus - and that's just in their small venue. The legendary Grand Hall has hosted all of the world's most famous orchestras, opera singers, and choruses, but also opens its doors to musicians from Musical Theater backgrounds (Kristen Chenowyth) and even pop stars like Rufus Waignright - who sold the place out recreating Judy Garland's (in)famous concert on that same stage.
Carnegie Hall is a New York institution and gives me hope for the future of the musical world. Long may it live and continue to bring music and joy to New York and the rest of the world. -
Review from Joseph W.
Los Angeles, CA
12/18/2008
Went to Carnegie for an amazing performance of Handel's Messiah conducted by my father's lifelong friend David Randolph - who turns 94 next week and this was his 173rd performance of Messiah. Unbelievable.
This is a truly amazing space. We usually get the same box every time we go (it's a somewhat biannual tradition for my Dad and me) and always have a great time. This is just such a wonderful space, and coming here always makes me feel more Christmas spirit than Rockefeller Center ever has, and it's amazing to be sitting in such a historic place, listening to incredible music. This place makes me feel more civilized than I actually am, which is fun. I can understand how some might think it isn't "grand" enough, but to me real beauty and grandeur is confident elegance - like how people with real money, old money, are different than people with new money wanting everyone to know how rich they are. I think Carnegie strikes the perfect balance. -
Review from Wayne S.
Bellmore, NY
10/18/2011 1 Check-in Here
Wow - acoustics were remarkable; New York Pops were great!
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Review from Ken O.
New York, NY
11/8/2007
Just go there. Even if it's a guy farting show tunes you'll love the experience. I know, not very classy of me but I hadn't been to Carnegie Hall in over 20 years and I was blown away. It is truly a spectacular room. Just incredible. We had great seats - 2nd row - and before the show I couldn't help but stare up into the seats and balconies. Performers must get such a rush from performing there - like playing baseball at Wrigley in Chicago or something.
Wheelchair access: Absolutely great. When you get your tickets they ask whether you'd like a chair removed or not. I sit in my wheelchair so I had them remove a seat. The morning of the show they called to confirm this is what I wanted - how great is that. There's an elevator to the lower level and an accessible bathroom is right there. Sometimes historic establishments use their 'history' as an excuse not to be very accommodating - not Carnegie Hall. The people and place get a standing (in spirit) ovation. -
Review from Ashley H.
New York, NY
2/2/2009
Beautiful.
Sincerely, everything about this place is remarkable from the architecture to the acoustics.
I came here for the first time to see Andrew Bird (he was a first as well) and although this wasn't classical music it sounded just as great. I remember studying music and always being told that every part of Carnegie Hall was built so that the sound is impeccable, and it really is. Mr. Bird seemed to also realize how remarkable this place is and really played it up with gramophones and violins. I had pretty great seats but I'd imagine it's just as amazing up top.
If you have the chance to see anything here just go. What a great New York experience. -
Review from Erica C.
New York, NY
1/16/2008
Now this is a concert hall. I would give it a milion stars if I could.
Stunning acoustics: such a warm, intimate, and lovely sound. I attend concerts at Carnegie Hall a few times a month, and it's always a moving and incredible experience. I can't say much about the decor - I go there so often I don't really notice it anymore (you know when something just becomes home to you) - but it's a lovely environment to listen. You can literally sit anywhere and the sound will be amazing.
Kudos to Carnegie for great and innovative programming. Not only do they show some of the great classical musicians of the world today, they're always dedicated to branching out - world music, jazz, contemporary pop/rock. Even their classical music programming is awesome - lots of contemporary composers, young dynamic artists, etc. Plus they have Club 57 and 7th - if you're under 35, you can get a 3 concert subsription each fall or spring season for $99. Sweet deal!? Student tickets for $10!? Even sweeter! Carnegie is where my heart is.Listed in: Classical Music Joints
