Fiona Khuong-Huu, 16, is a pre-college student at The Julliard School and a guest artist and violinist who is part of the New York Philharmonic’s Young People’s Concerts. The series is geared for children ages six and older and is a fantastic, fun way to introduce a younger generation to the world of classical music.
Upcoming concerts are January 20, April 20 and May 4.
My young daughter attended the kick-off performance with Fiona on November 18. Named “Time Capsule,” the concert explored past programs led by notable conductors such as Leonard Bernstein and kept her fully engaged.
I recently asked Fiona about her favorite places and things in New York. Her responses follow:
Where do you currently live?
I live on the East Side in Manhattan.
What is your favorite neighborhood in NYC and why?
I love Central Park because it’s one of the few places near me that I can really feel the seasonal changes in nature.
Can you share some of your favorite spots near Juilliard and what makes them so great?
I love the Illumination Lawn—a little grass top area right across the street from Juilliard at Lincoln Center because it’s nice to be able to get some fresh air during packed Pre-College days.
The best place for a pre-or post-concert meal. What are the dishes to order?
Pre-concert, I prefer to eat something quick, so I usually look for somewhere with a soup and a sandwich – Boulud has a great ham and cheese. I also like Rosetta which has some delicious pizzas, sandwiches, and pastries as well. Indie, which was right across from Juilliard, was a wonderful pre-concert go-to for salads and sandwiches. It just moved down the block to the David Rubinstein Atrium. Another place I love is the Mexican restaurant El Fish Marisqueria–I actually haven’t gotten the chance to go to in person, but I’ve taken out their tacos after concerts and rehearsals and they taste amazing! It’s also quite popular!
Best place for ice cream in New York and the flavors to order.
My favorite ice cream spot is Anita Gelato, and my favorite ice cream flavor in general is coffee and strawberry or mango sorbet, so those are my go-tos. Their watermelon with mint flavor is delicious too!
Insider tips for enjoying a classical music concert? What would make the experience better and why? What if you're a novice or unfamiliar with classical music?
No matter what level of familiarity you have with classical music, it’s important to be completely present in the moment and just let the music wash over you–to take in the many different sounds and feel the music dancing around the hall. At a classical music concert, I really feel the experience and get into it! I always love when the sounds I hear connect to expressions and emotions I experience
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