“Presented to the City of New York and its Music Lovers.” That inscription graces the Naumburg Bandshell. It hints at a story of generosity, music and a city’s enduring love for both.
The Naumburg Bandshell stands on the eastern edge of Central Park’s Concert Ground. It is at the north end of the Mall. For nearly a century this semi-circular structure has been a venue for concerts and events. It is named for philanthropist Elkan Naumburg. He saw the need for free symphonic concerts.
Elkan Naumburg was born in Bavaria in 1835. He came to America at age 15. Music was his passion. He wanted to share it with everyone. In 1905, Naumburg began his free Central Park concert series. These concerts were patterned after earlier musical performances in Central Park.
The Naumburg Bandshell itself was built in 1923. But it was designed in 1916. Elkan delayed construction because of World War I. He thought it was inappropriate to build something for pleasure during wartime. William G. Tachau, Naumburg’s nephew, designed the Bandshell. It is a half-sphere shape. It features cast and Indiana limestone. The Naumburg Bandshell combines classical shapes with acoustics. The Bandshell has become a popular design for music pavilions.
The Naumburg Bandshell’s design has historic precedents. Examples are the Pantheon of Rome and the Eagle Pavilion at Gatchina Palace. The half-domed design was chosen for its beauty and acoustics. The Bandshell uses a double shell construction. The outer shell protects from the weather. The inner shell throws the sound to the audience.
The Naumburg Bandshell’s opening concert was September 29, 1923. Franz Kaltenborn led a 60-piece orchestra. Katheryn Lynbrook sang. She was from the Chicago Opera Company. 10000 people attended. The concert included selections from Aida and Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony. It ended with Edwin Franko Goldman’s “On the Mall”. Goldman dedicated the march to Elkan.
Elkan Naumburg died in 1924. His sons Walter and George continued the concerts. Walter’s will established a fund. It ensures the concerts continue. The Naumburg Concerts have presented many talented musicians. They were early groundbreakers in presenting opportunities to African American and female soloists.
In the 1980s, there was a plan to remove the Naumburg Bandshell. But the Coalition to Save the Naumburg Bandshell fought back. They filed a lawsuit. In 1993, the courts blocked the demolition. The Naumburg Bandshell was saved.
The Naumburg Bandshell fell into disrepair. But it was renovated in 2021. The restoration helped preserve the structure. It restored lost architectural features. The Naumburg Bandshell stands as a testament to Elkan Naumburg’s vision. It is a gift to the city and its music lovers. The Naumburg Bandshell continues to host concerts and events. Its music fills the air. It brings joy to all who listen.