To celebrate the conclusion of the "Czech Music Centennial Year," Bychkov and the Czech Philharmonic appeared at Carnegie Hall. Gil Shaham’s performance of Dvořák’s Violin Concerto was electrifying—brilliant in every solo, flowing seamlessly with the orchestra, like a game of music in motion. Bychkov, still recovering from back surgery, conducted Mahler’s Fifth with heartfelt intensity, drawing a warm, rich sound that mirrored the shifting currents of Mahler’s music. The orchestra’s breathing and awareness brought Prague and Moravia to life in every note. Having heard six orchestras recently, this performance reminded me how profoundly music can challenge and renew one’s own perspective.