David Bohnett Speeches

Remarks at Gustavo Dudamel Inaugural Season Press Conference

Good afternoon. I am David Bohnett Chairman of the LA Philharmonic. On behalf of the Association I welcome you to share in our excitement as we announce the inaugural season of our new Music Director, Gustavo Dudamel.

It is an honor to serve as Chairman during this extraordinary period in the orchestra’s history. In these challenging times, cultural arts institutions play a crucial and vital role in helping to lift our hearts and spirits. Live music performances in particular can inspire us to see the path to a brighter future.

Having just returned from the inaugural festivities in Washington, DC, it strikes me what an important role music, and classical music, played in every aspect of the revelry; from the concert at the Lincoln Memorial on Sunday, to the moving rendition of John Williams’ “Air and Simple Gifts” at the swearing in ceremony, to the myriad of musicians performing at numerous post-inaugural galas.

As you hear today about our upcoming season, I hope you will get a feel for Gustavo’s unique sense of innovation and spirit; and many of us have witnessed firsthand Gustavo’s ability to inspire hope and optimism.

I can’t thank everyone by name but we have a great representation of supporters and friends of the LA Phil here this afternoon, including County Supervisors Zev Yaroslavsky and Gloria Molina, City Council members Jan Perry and Tom LeBonge; Music Center Chairman John Emerson and his wife Kimberly; as well Board members of the Los Angeles Philharmonic, and musicians from our great orchestra.

Now it gives me great pleasure to introduce you to the President and CEO of the LA Phil, Deborah Borda.