LA Philharmonic Names Future Conductor

Apr 08, 02:49 PM

Current Headlines: The Los Angeles Philharmonic says after music director Esa-Pekka Salonen resigns his position, he will be replaced by conductor Gustavo Dudamel.

The Los Angeles Times said the Philharmonic is expected to make the official announcement Monday on Dudamel's new position, which will take effect after the 2008-09 season when Salonen leaves his post.

Salonen said while he still intends to enjoy conducting with the Philharmonic, he will leave his directorial post with the successful orchestra to focus on his composing.

Dudamel, a 26-year-old Venezuelan conductor, has said he is excited at the prospect of returning to the city where he made his U.S. debut in 2005 and with the same orchestra.

Los Angeles was the first orchestra to give me the opportunity to make my U.S. debut at the very beginning of my career, he said. The energy was very special from the start, and I love how open to new ideas the orchestra is.

Philharmonic President Deborah Borda told the Times that despite the the conductor's youth, she is confident the change will allow Dudamel to embrace his artistic vision.