Out West Arts: Performance at the end of the world

Oh what a relief it is. At least that was my thought earlier today after hearing the announcement for the Los Angeles Philharmonic’s 09/10 Season, the first under new music director Gustavo Dudamel. I've been worried about the fate of new and recent music here at the Disney Concert Hall with Salonen on the way out and the much-hyped Dudamel slowly bronzing in the light of seemingly endless flashbulbs. This anxiety was even more heightened after hearing about the incredible season Alan Gilbert has lined up for the New York Philharmonic next year just days ago. But as far as programming is concerned, all of my worry was for naught. The L.A. Philharmonic is offering up an incredible season with new music around every corner, plenty of old friends, and wonderful and inventive programming throughout the year.

So what’s the big deal? Where to begin. Nine world premieres, five of which will be led by Dudamel, including pieces from John Adams, Unsuk Chin, and Stephen Hartke. A major retrospective of works from California composers under the direction of John Adams (“West Coast: Left Coast”) including the likes of Terry Riley and Lou Harrison. A Dudamel organized series “America and the Americas” will revisit works from and inspired by the geographical region to include Osvaldo Golijov’s Pasión Según San Marco, Antonio Estévez’s Cantata Criolla and Kelly O’Connor singing Peter Lieberson’s Neruda Songs. Thomas Adès will return with his violin concerto, Emmanuel Ax will perform in several programs including one with Yo-Yo Ma, and Christine Brewer will give a recital. And while New York may get Ligeti’s Le Grand Macabre in concert, L.A. will have a semi-staged version of the U.S. Premiere of Louis Andriessen’s La Commedia. And did I mention the two appearances from Dawn Upshaw, including her performance of Folk Songs from Berio?

There’s plenty more, but I’ll leave that for you to dig out on your own. There’s plenty of bad news these days, and it’s a real pleasure to see something go unquestionably right for a change. Here’s looking to a great first season for Dudamel and another great season for the L.A. Philharmonic.

Labels: LA Philharmonic