Tom Di Nardo

Listening to Musicians Tom Di Nardo

For over 40 years, Tom Di Nardo has listened to the heartbeat and felt the soul of the Philadelphia Orchestra through the passionate words of great musicians. Its conductors Riccardo Muti, Wolfgang Sawallisch, Christoph Eschenbach, Charles Dutoit and Yannick Nézet-Séguin generously offered a window into their supremely challenging world, commenting from their unique perspective as interpreters of musical giants. Another aspect of performance comes from the wealth of guest pianists, violinists, instrumentalists and conductors who have collaborated on stage at the Academy of Music and the Kimmel Center. Their insights into art and dedication bring us a deep awareness of performing at such an exalted level. Perhaps the most heartfelt comments come from the Orchestra's musicians, past and present. Many became friends, opening up with revelations and humor about their lives, background and commitment, as well as the joy of playing the vast orchestral repertoire. The political saga of the Orchestra's eventual relocation from the Academy of Music, a move impeded for years which finally resulted in the Kimmel Center, is an adventure recounted in detail. In Philadelphia, and several times on tour, Di Nardo had the opportunity as a journalist with the Philadelphia Daily News to interview many of these renowned musicians. His intention was to bring the layman, and the Orchestra's informed audience, closer to the spirit of the 101 diverse virtuosi on stage, a human crucible who combine into one moving experience."Listening To Musicians" is meant for anyone who feels the power of music, told by the artists who create it, week after week. Second edition, March 2017.