The New York Philharmonic will play the U.S. and North Korean anthems during an historic visit to the reclusive Communist state in February.

The centerpiece of the visit by the United States oldest symphony orchestra will be a performance on Feb. 26 at the East Pyongyang Grand Theatre. North Korean music conservatory students will attend master classes by New York Philharmonic musicians, as well as the orchestra’s rehearsal.

Long-time foes Washington and Pyongyang are formally in a state of war but are engaged in a diplomatic process that could lead to the normalization of ties.

“This journey is a manifestation of the power of music to unite people,” said Zarin Mehta, president of the New York Philharmonic. “It is our sincere hope that these concerts will aid in the beginning of a new era between the peoples of our nations.”

But critics have questioned the appropriateness of the Philharmonic’s visit to North Korea whose government the United States considers one of the world’s most repressive and which has been accused of human rights abuses.

What do you think? Should they stay or should they go?