1. The Chorale
The Los Angeles Master Chorale has been providing quality performances in the area for over half a century. Under the leadership of Grant Gershon, the Grammy-nominated group has been praised around the world for setting the standard for choral music.
2. The Soloists
Kathryn Mueller is a Grammy nominee, giving acclaimed performances all over the country. Paul Appleby and Suzanna Guzman have both appeared on the Metropolitan Opera Stage. Justin Hopkins returns to LACO after his much-admired performance in Lost in the Stars. All four are world-class artists.
3. The Conductor
Jeffrey Kahane, retiring from LACO after 20 years as music director, is unparalleled in the music world. For this concert, his final Discover concert in his tenure, he will take the audience on a musical journey through the historical and modern significance of the piece.
4. The Piece
Beethoven’s Ninth is the final symphony written by the classical master. It was revolutionary when it premiered and has only grown in reputation. What better way to spend a weekend in April?
5. The Orchestra
Declared “America’s finest chamber orchestra” by Public Radio International, LACO has been hailed all over the world for its quality interpretations of new and classical pieces. Beethoven’s 9th marks the penultimate concert in the 2016-17 season, and of all the reasons to be joyful, the players are central to my smile.