Onstage he’s Avraham Fried, one of the Jewish world’s most popular singers. Offstage, though, he’s Avremel Friedman — a Yid who knows that he has been given this gift for a purpose.
“Lincoln Center.”
The driver nods and shoots into Sunday afternoon traffic one more dot in the streak of yellow taxis on the avenue.
“Backstage entrance please.”
I’d expected more of a reaction having announced so impressive a destination; the expressionless coal-black eyes in the rearview mirror are disappointing.
The main entrance is quiet — the concert won’t start for hours — and after I alight by the second humbler entrance a guard checks my name against his list and waves me upstairs.
Cavernous Avery Fisher Hall is fairly empty. Its seat cushions are upright the carpet is freshly vacuumed. Only a few lone figures are scattered around the periphery. Onstage though there is action. The orchestra is rehearsing the celebrated HASC concert theme song amidst all manner of bustle; sound engineers huddle stagehands carry equipment back and forth lighting technicians switch bulbs on and off choir members practice notes audaciously high and daringly low. Standing off to the side leaning serenely against the wall is David Golding — aka Ding — the producer of tonight’s event who manages without raising his voice or appearing rushed to answer questions issue instructions reassure fretful musicians.
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