New York Philharmonic Opening Gala with Itzhak Perlman

Sharing an intimate moment with the PBS audience, violinist Itzhak Perlman describes how he, with encouragement from his parents, overcame polio to become one of the world's most celebrated virtuosos. He performs with the New York Philharmonic at its 171st season Opening Gala on September 27. (Check local listings.)

Leonard Bernstein, Arturo Toscanini, Gustav Mahler - these are just a few of the legends who have led the New York Philharmonic. The Philharmonic's current Music Director, Alan Gilbert, explains why it's sometimes best not to try to compete. He leads the Philharmonic at the Opening Gala of its astonishing 171st season, September 27 on PBS. (Check local listings.)

New York Philharmonic Music Director Alan Gilbert offers a unique spin on a universal phenomenon - the awkwardness of dealing with your mother as an adult - at his very first rehearsal as a guest conductor. He leads the Philharmonic at its Opening Gala, September 27 on PBS. (Check local listings.)

Virtuoso violinist Itzhak Perlman sits down with us at the Perlman Music Program in upstate New York to offer sage advice for aspiring musicians. He performs with the New York Philharmonic at its Opening Gala, September 27 on PBS. (Check local listings.)

Music has shaped the life of violinist Itzhak Perlman in even stranger ways than most virtuoso musicians. He and his wife Toby tell the story from their teaching facility, the Perlman Music Program, in upstate New York. Originally broadcast on September 27, 2012 as part of the New York Philharmonic's Opening Gala.

Live From Lincoln Center spends time with New York Philharmonic Music Director Alan Gilbert at his summer home in Stockholm, Sweden. He discusses his upbringing in a musical family and the special meaning that his role at the Philharmonic has for him. Originally broadcast September 27, 2012.