New York Philharmonic brings musical diplomacy to NKorea

0 Comments | AFP, February, 2008

PYONGYANG, Feb 26, 2008 (AFP) — The New York Philharmonic filled a Pyongyang theatre with the "Star-Spangled Banner" and a popular Korean folk song as it played an historic concert aimed at boosting US ties with communist North Korea.

The 106-member orchestra received a lengthy standing ovation and flowers at the end of the concert, which was broadcast live in North Korea and around the world and also featured melodies from Antonin Dvorak and US composer George Gershwin.

"When we received this very warm and enthusiastic reception, we felt that indeed there may be a mission accomplished here, we may have been instrumental in opening a little door here," musical director Lorin Maazel told a press conference after the performance.

"And we simply hope that, if...