North Korea Tour Ends in Success

Posted by Sarah Canice Funke Mar 1, 2008

A tour that has attracted interest for months, the New York Philharmonic's trip to North Korea raised speculations of potential cultural and perhaps political reconciliation between the United States and North Korea. Would the tour achieve a feat of cultural diplomacy, fostering greater understanding and cultural awareness between East and West, Communism and Democracy?

As the tour came to a close on Wednesday, February 26, musicians and directors were buzzing with enthusiasm. Not only did the New York Philharmonic draw packed crowds to its performances, but the American orchestra got to play with the North Korean state orchestra. Players from the NYP also got to perform with North Korean players. The Americans were surprised at the North Koreans' proficiency in Western music (which makes me wonder, what were they expecting? Many Asian nations are quite familiar with Western music). Both sides were extremely happy with the experience, making the North Korea tour a tremendous success.

For more information, please read the CBC article.