What to Expect at Carnegie Hall's New Music Season

Carnegie Hall’s new season features its first complete "Ring" cycle, Beethoven & Mozart sonata cycles, and a Steve Reich 90th birthday celebration.

Carnegie Hall has unveiled its ambitious 2026–2027 season, a program marked by historic firsts and comprehensive celebrations of musical giants. The landmark season will feature the venue’s first-ever complete presentation of Wagner’s epic "Der Ring des Nibelungen," immersive cycles of Beethoven and Mozart sonatas, and a major 90th birthday tribute to pioneering composer Steve Reich.

The "Ring" cycle, a cornerstone of the opera repertoire, will be staged in concert over four consecutive nights by the Berlin Philharmonic Chief Conductor Kirill Petrenko. This marks a significant logistical and artistic undertaking for the Hall, requiring immense orchestral and vocal forces. Alongside this operatic marathon, the season will present complete cycles of Beethoven’s 32 piano sonatas, performed by pianist Igor Levit, and Mozart’s 18 piano sonatas, spread across recitals by several artists.

The Steve Reich celebration is a multi-concert series featuring his seminal works, including "Music for 18 Musicians" and "Different Trains," performed by ensembles like the Ensemble Modern and Reich’s own group. This retrospective honors his profound influence on minimalism and contemporary music. Additional highlights include residencies from the Los Angeles Philharmonic and the Philadelphia Orchestra, a focus on contemporary women composers, and the hall's ongoing "Artist Perspectives" series.

"We wanted a season that speaks to both the monumental foundations and the vibrant future of concert music," said Carnegie Hall’s Artistic Director. "From the grandeur of Wagner to the pulse of Reich, and through the intimate genius of Beethoven and Mozart, this is a journey through the power of the musical idea." Subscriptions go on sale next month, with single tickets available in the summer. The season is expected to draw international audiences, reinforcing New York's position as a global capital for classical music.