Why should you attend LACO’s trailblazing orchestral series this fall?

The Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra (LACO) is set to inaugurate its 2024/25 Orchestral Series with an evocative program titled TRAILBLAZERS: MARTÍN + BRAHMS + BAUER. This highly anticipated event will feature Music Director Jaime Martín conducting Brahms’ Symphony No. 2 in D major, a piece renowned for its sunny yet wistful tones. The series will commence on Saturday, October 19, at 7:30 pm at Glendale’s Alex Theatre, followed by performances on Sunday, October 20, at 4 pm at the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts in Beverly Hills, and Monday, October 21, 2024, at 7:30 pm at Santa Barbara’s Granada Theatre.

A Journey Through Time and Emotion

The program opens with Haydn’s Symphony No. 6 in D major, Morning, the first in a triptych of early Haydn symphonies that portray different times of the day. This symphony’s sunlit tones summon the duality of the human experience, setting the stage for a deeply emotional journey. Once Haydn’s piece concludes, Mahler’s profoundly intimate song cycle Songs of a Wayfarer, brought to life by guest artist Thomas Bauer and orchestrated by Schoenberg, will take the spotlight. This masterpiece delves into the sorrow of a traveler lamenting his lost love, navigating through themes of sorrow and reflection.

The evening culminates with Brahms’ Symphony No. 2 in D major, a composition that escorts listeners across Austria’s Eastern Alps, intertwining elements of sorrow and existential contemplation. This symphony is a testament to Brahms’ ability to blend joy and sorrow, creating a rich tapestry of emotions that resonate deeply with listeners.

Support and Acknowledgements

LACO recognizes the generous support of the Colburn Foundation, along with public funding from the National Endowment for the Arts, the State of California, the California Arts Council, the Los Angeles County Arts Commission, the City of Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs, the Perenchio Foundation, and the Walter J. + Holly O. Thomson Foundation. Moreover, LACO extends sincere gratitude to Hogan Lovells US LLP for their substantial pro bono aid. Steinway is proudly designated as the official piano provider for the Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra.

The orchestral series owes its realization, in part, to the substantial backing from Peggy and Jack Falcon. These contributions ensure that LACO can continue to bring innovative programming into homes and schools all over the world, enriching the cultural landscape of Los Angeles and beyond.

Venues and Ticket Information

The Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts can be found at 9390 N Santa Monica Boulevard, Beverly Hills, CA 90210. The Alex Theatre is situated at 216 N. Brand Boulevard, Glendale, CA 91203. The Granada Theatre is located on State Street in Santa Barbara, CA 93101. For information and tickets, which range from $40 to $164 at Alex Theatre and the Wallis, and $41 to $123 at Granada Theatre, please visit www.laco.org or call 213-221-3920.

Our Advice on the City

For those planning to attend the Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra’s performances, we recommend exploring the vibrant cultural scene of Los Angeles. The city offers a plethora of activities, from visiting world-class museums like the Getty Center and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art to enjoying the scenic beauty of Griffith Park and the Santa Monica Pier.

For occasional travelers, a visit to the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts provides a unique opportunity to experience a blend of historical architecture and modern design. The center hosts a variety of performances, making it a cultural hub in Beverly Hills.

For expert travelers, consider exploring the lesser-known gems of Los Angeles, such as the historic Alex Theatre in Glendale. This venue not only offers exceptional acoustics but also a rich history that dates back to 1925. Additionally, the Granada Theatre in Santa Barbara, with its Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, provides a picturesque setting for enjoying classical music.

In conclusion, the Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra’s upcoming orchestral series promises to be a feast for the senses, offering a journey through the evolution of romanticism. Whether you are a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, Los Angeles has something to offer everyone. We hope this article has inspired you to explore the city’s rich cultural offerings and experience the magic of live orchestral music.