LA Phil Dudamel Review: High-Contrast Proms Programming 2026

The LA Phil under Gustavo Dudamel delivered a high-contrast evening at the Proms, pairing Beethoven's Pastoral Symphony with Thomas Adès's Dante. This review explores the concert's dual nature, from polished classicism to explosive modernism.

LA Phil and Dudamel: A Tale of Two Orchestras

The concert opened with the LA Phil's return to the Proms after over two decades. Their Beethoven Pastoral was a masterclass in refined execution, blending period-performance nuances with modern orchestral warmth. Dudamel's direction brought out luminous textures, with woodwind solos shining brightly and string phrases breathing organically.

Yet, the sheer polish occasionally veered into blandness. The slow build of tutti passages, while beautifully controlled, left some listeners craving more daring pianissimos. The storm movement, however, provided dramatic contrast with growling timpani and rumbling basses, culminating in a serene, sunset-like brass chorale.

Adès's Dante: A Fiery Contrast

After the interval, the program shifted dramatically with the Inferno from Thomas Adès's ballet Dante. This music abandoned historical politeness for vigorous, rhythmic energy. String scrubbing was thunderous, woodwinds voluptuous, and trumpets snarled with jazz-inflected rasp. Dudamel leaned into allusions to Wagner, Liszt, Ravel, and Tchaikovsky, creating a whirlwind of references.

The performance was a testament to the orchestra's versatility, yet the juxtaposition with Beethoven highlighted the challenges of high-contrast programming. The audience was taken from serene pastoral scenes to a chaotic underworld, a journey that was both exhilarating and disorienting.

Comparison: Beethoven vs. Adès

Key Takeaways from the Concert

• The LA Phil's technical excellence was on full display in both works.
• Dudamel's interpretive range spans from intimate detail to grand gestures.
• High-contrast programming can be intellectually stimulating but risks emotional whiplash.
• Adès's Dante is a modern masterpiece that rewards repeated listening.

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