The legendary John Williams has unveiled a surprise musical tribute to Gustavo Dudamel, marking the conductor’s 17-year legacy as Music & Artistic Director of the Los Angeles Philharmonic.
A tribute between friends
The new work, titled “Bravo Gustavo!”, celebrates the deep bond between the world-renowned composer and the LA Phil. Although it shares a title with the commemoration of Dudamel’s tenth anniversary, this fresh fanfare is a distinct salute to the enduring impact of his leadership.
Focus on the brass
The composition is written to showcase the brilliance of the orchestra’s trumpet section. By highlighting these specific performers, Williams seeks to honour both the individual musicians of the Philharmonic and the collective spirit Dudamel has fostered since his arrival.
As Dudamel prepares for his eventual transition to the New York Philharmonic, this surprise from Williams stands as a poignant “thank you” from the film music icon to the man who has spent nearly two decades defining the sound of Los Angeles.
World premiere details
Audiences will hear the work for the first time on 4 June at the Walt Disney Concert Hall. The fanfare has been added as a special centrepiece to the “Gustavo Dudamel: Celebrating the Musicians of the LA Phil” programme.
Subscribe to our newsletter