The Interlochen Arts Academy Orchestra has been invited to perform as part of the New York Philharmonic's 2016 NY PHIL BIENNIAL – the Philharmonic's exploration of today's music. The collaboration was announced by the Philharmonic's Music Director Alan Gilbert and President Matthew VanBesien at a press conference this week.

VanBesien called Interlochen a "natural partner" for the biennial. "Our partnership with Interlochen and its accomplished young musicians for the second NY PHIL BIENNIAL reflects the Philharmonic's growing collaborations with leading music education organizations across the globe," says VanBesien. "I fondly remember my years at Interlochen as a hornist, and I know the Philharmonic musicians who are Interlochen alumni also consider it a formative experience. This partnership is a wonderful opportunity to collaborate with the next generations of music lovers to champion new music."

The programs will be announced at a later date.