674. How Does a Composer Feel After the World Premiere?

674. How Does a Composer Feel After the World Premiere?

May 8, 2026 · 45 min · Episode 674

About this episode

Stephen Dubner explores the emotional journey of a composer after a world premiere, featuring insights from David Lang and reactions from fans and the New York Philharmonic's president.

Great. Then depressed. Then great again. Stephen Dubner gets the full story from David Lang; we also hear from some fans, and the New York Philharmonic’s president. The math and the aftermath of “wealth of nations.” (Part two of a series.)

People in this episode

Host: Stephen Dubner

Guest: David Lang

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Organizations: New York Philharmonic

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