When it came to baseball, Bernie Williams had no trouble picking up a bat. He always used the same reliable Rawlings model throughout his career with the New York Yankees, whether it was spring training or the playoffs, facing fast pitchers or knuckleballers.
But music was a different story.
“Choosing a guitar is about the gig,’’ Williams explained. “It’s about the sound you want to create and the music you plan to play. You need the right instrument for each gig, and that changes over time.”
Now, as Williams prepares for his second debut, this time as a musician, he is faced with a new challenge. He will be playing guitar with the New York Philharmonic for the first time at the Spring Gala, a major milestone for the former baseball star.
So, which guitar will he choose? The acoustic steel string? The archtop? Williams mentioned that he might even opt for an electric guitar for a Santana-like sound, though he worries it might be too much for the occasion.
Williams, who spent his entire career with the Yankees from 1991 to 2006, has transitioned into a successful musician, earning a Latin Grammy nomination and critical acclaim. At 55, the prospect of performing at a prestigious New York venue like the Philharmonic gives Williams butterflies.
During the Gala, he will play his 2009 piece “Moving Forward,” newly arranged by jazz artist Jeff Tyzik, under the direction of famed conductor Gustavo Dudamel.
“I expect to be as nervous as I’ve ever been on any stage,’’ Williams admitted. “But I think it’s gonna be no different from playing a seventh game of the World Series, you know?”
Williams’ unique background makes him stand out among the performers at the Gala, creating a dilemma for the president and CEO of the New York Philharmonic, Gary Ginstling, a die-hard Mets fan.
“This is a deeply difficult decision for me, I have to say,’’ Ginstling joked. “I did scour the landscape for any retired Mets. But no one could hold a candle to Bernie Williams.”
Bernie Williams has performed the national anthem before baseball games since retiring. Here he is in 2021 at an Oakland Athletics-Minnesota Twins game. (Darren Yamashita / USA Today)
Reflecting on his baseball career, Williams recalls his debut at Yankee Stadium in 1991, where he faced left-handed pitcher Jeff Ballard and ended up with a groundout. Despite the shaky start, he went on to have a successful career, hitting his first home run just a week later at Anaheim Stadium against the California Angels.
Throughout his time with the Yankees, Williams was a key player in four World Series titles and made a name for himself in the postseason with 22 home runs, ranking third all-time.
Williams’ transition to the music world has not been without challenges, as he strives to prove himself beyond his baseball legacy. His upcoming performance with the New York Philharmonic at the Spring Gala is an opportunity to showcase his dedication to music and inspire a new generation of musicians.
Williams’ musical journey began at a young age, learning from his father and eventually pursuing formal education in music composition. His experience at the Manhattan School of Music was pivotal in solidifying his identity as an artist.
Bernie Williams and musician Jon Secada performing during the Grammy SoundCheck on April 17, 2009, in New York City. (Joe Kohen / WireImage)
Now, as he prepares for his performance at the Spring Gala, Williams is focused on perfecting his craft and delivering a memorable show. The eclectic lineup for the event aims to engage new audiences and showcase the diverse talents of the New York Philharmonic.
As the Gala approaches, Williams continues to hone his skills, waking up in the early hours to practice on his guitar. The dedication and preparation required for this event mirror his approach to baseball, ensuring he is ready to shine under pressure and meet the high expectations set for him.
Williams’ journey from baseball to music reflects his growth as an artist and his commitment to using his talent for the greater good. His performance at the Spring Gala will not only showcase his musical prowess but also inspire others to appreciate the power of music.
And as a Mets fan like Ginstling eagerly anticipates Williams’ debut with the New York Philharmonic, it’s clear that Williams’ unique background and dedication to his craft have made him a standout figure in both the sports and music worlds.
(Top photo: Mychal Watts / Getty Images)