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Harding Leads Strauss

Walt Disney Concert Hall

Richard Strauss’ music offers rich lyricism and deep storytelling—often focusing on intense psychological extremes. British conductor Daniel Harding has proven a sensitive interpreter of Strauss’ sweeping and indulgent orchestral works. The Guardian praised him for being “sensuous yet never cloying” in his interpretation of Also sprach Zarathustra—the epic and thunderous work best remembered for its use in Stanley Kubrick’s 2001: A Space Odyssey.

“Is there a work where the first minute is so well known yet nothing is known of the other 33 minutes?” Harding asks. The iconic opening trumpet call and booming timpani thuds are “incredibly graphic, and very well thought out,” leaving space for deep contemplation.

Strauss had a particular affection and talent for the horn, his father’s instrument. His Second Concerto explores the instrument’s many possibilities, from Mozartian elegance to rustic hunting fanfares, making it a perfect showcase for Los Angeles Philharmonic Principal Andrew Bain. 

Thomas Adès’ symphonic distillation of his 2016 opera The Exterminating Angel kicks off the concert on a thrilling note. Much like the film that inspired the music (Luis Buñuel’s 1962 surrealist psychological drama of the same name), The Exterminating Angel Symphony is strange, dark, and amusing with drastic tempos shifts that yank its listeners back and forth between moments of glee and unease.

Classical
  • Approx. 2-2.5 hours,
    including 20-minute intermission

Program

STRAUSS

Horn Concerto No. 2

Intermission

The LA Phil's Next Music Director

Daniel Harding

Daniel Harding joins the LA Phil as its Music Director starting in the 27/28 season, spearheading the LA Phil’s evolving artistic leadership team. Acclaimed for his artistic leadership and craftsmanship, Harding’s repertoire is wide-ranging, from award winning recordings of baroque music to countless premieres of new works.

Plan Your Visit

Walt Disney Concert Hall

111 S Grand Ave Los Angeles, California 90012

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Accessibility

Walt Disney Concert Hall offers accessibility options for individuals with mobility, auditory, or visual impairments.

Accessibility

Email: WDAccess@laphil.org
Phone: 213 972 0777

Mailing address:
ADA Compliance Coordinator
Los Angeles Philharmonic Association
151 S. Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90012-3034

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