Program
-
- Humboldt’s Nature
- world premiere
- LA Phil commission
-
- Intermission
About this Performance
In his music to Egmont, Beethoven magnificently distilled the heroic tale of a Dutch warrior who gave his life to preserve freedom and independence in the face of oppression. Acclaimed playwright Jeremy O. Harris reimagines Johann Wolfgang von Goethe's play with Academy Award winner Cate Blanchett as its narrator and Gustavo Dudamel conducting the Los Angeles Philharmonic in Beethoven’s music.
Leading off the evening is the world premiere of Ricardo Lorenz’s Humboldt’s Nature, inspired by the South American travels of Beethoven’s like-minded contemporary, philosopher and naturalist Alexander von Humboldt. In between, piano sensation Yunchan Lim, winner of the 2022 Van Cliburn competition, performs Robert Schumann’s enchanting Piano Concerto.
Please note that this performance of Beethoven’s Egmont contains mature language. Audience discretion is advised.
A note from Gustavo Dudamel
This is a program of many journeys—across time, continents, and experiences. We begin with the world premiere of Ricardo Lorenz’s Humboldt’s Nature, a work that captures the curiosity and wonder of the explorer Alexander von Humboldt. As Humboldt traveled through the Americas at the turn of the 19th century, he interacted with the world and all its complexity, and Ricardo’s music brings that same spirit to life.
Next, we are joined by the remarkable Yunchan Lim, who will perform Schumann’s Piano Concerto. Schumann believed that music could “send light into the darkness of men’s hearts,” and Yunchan does exactly that. The clarity and intensity of his playing bring out the deepest warmth of this piece.
We conclude with a very special presentation of Beethoven’s music for Goethe’s Egmont, a work that has fascinated me for many years and one I have long wanted to explore in a new way. Beethoven was drawn to Goethe’s story of a Dutch nobleman who stands against tyranny, and that struggle for freedom still resonates powerfully today. This project grew from my desire to bring Egmont fully into the present, and over the past year it has been a great joy to work closely with Cate Blanchett and Jeremy O. Harris to shape this adaptation.
For me, this evening is about connection: connecting past and present, East and West, imagination and reality. It is about sharing a moment together in which music becomes a living bridge between all of us. —Gustavo Dudamel
See other concerts in this seriesPrograms, artists, dates, prices, and availability subject to change. Ticket limits may apply. All sales are final.
Enhance Your Experience
-
Upbeat Live with Christian Campos
Event starts at 9:45AM
Before the concert, some of the sharpest musical minds around–including guest artists–guide you through the evening’s music. This free event is held in the main auditorium, accessible after your ticket is scanned.
-
Dudamel & Beethoven tees, totes, and more
Don't miss new limited-edition Dudamel & Beethoven merch! Only available at the LA Phil Store.