The Gustavo Dudamel LA Phil era is coming to a historic close as Music & Artistic Director Gustavo Dudamel prepares for his final bow with the Los Angeles Philharmonic. From August 20 to 23, the Hollywood Bowl will host the Dudamel Tribute Series, a four-night event celebrating the maestro’s transformative 17-year tenure. Since taking the helm in 2009 at age 28, the Venezuelan conductor expanded the orchestra’s repertoire across genres while cementing his reputation as a visionary global leader. Following this season, Dudamel will begin his next chapter as Music Director of the New York Philharmonic.
Highlights of the Gustavo Dudamel LA Phil Farewell Series
The upcoming tribute series reflects the extraordinary stylistic range that defined Dudamel’s time in Los Angeles, spanning classical masterpieces, rock collaborations, and Latin American pop.
August 20: Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony
The series opens with Beethoven’s iconic Symphony No. 9 (“Choral”). Dudamel will be joined by the LA Phil, the Los Angeles Master Chorale, the Los Angeles Children’s Chorus, and young musicians from YOLA (Youth Orchestra Los Angeles).
August 21: Dudamel Playlist
Hosted by Dudamel himself, this one-night-only performance highlights artists and compositions close to his heart. The lineup features iconic Latin acts including Mexican band Los Tigres del Norte and Grammy-winning singer Lila Downs, blurring the boundaries between classical and popular music.
August 22: Foo Fighters with the LA Phil & YOLA
One of the most anticipated events of the season, rock legends Foo Fighters will share the stage with the LA Phil and YOLA. The cross-genre collaboration synthesizes Dudamel’s penchant for musical experimentation.
August 23: Tribute Series Finale
The final performance synthesizes 17 years of artistic discovery into a single evening, featuring classical, pop, and Latin selections that showcase the breadth of his legacy.
A Legacy of Innovation and Community Impact
Born in 1981 and raised through Venezuela’s famed El Sistema youth music program, Dudamel reshaped the modern orchestra. During his 17 years in Los Angeles, he broadened the classical canon by integrating film scores, jazz, rock, and Latin music. Beyond the concert hall, his commitment to music education led to the founding and growth of YOLA, providing underserved youth with access to high-caliber orchestral training and inspiring similar programs worldwide.
By Eunyoung Lee
