Best Classical Performances of 2024 (Los Angeles)

Southern California’s vibrant arts scene is buzzing with anticipation for 2024, promising a year brimming with unforgettable performances. From captivating dance productions and innovative musical collaborations to world-class orchestral experiences and breathtaking operas, there’s something to enthrall every art enthusiast. Diavolo | Architecture in Motion’s *existencia* Prepare to be mesmerized by Diavolo | Architecture in Motion’s *existencia*, a performance that transcends the boundaries of traditional dance. This dynamic production, featuring a captivating fusion of athleticism, artistry, and architectural innovation, will leave you breathless. Wild Up’s *Darkness Sounding* the acclaimed ensemble Wild Up presents *Darkness Sounding*, an immersive sonic experience that delves into the depths of musical exploration. this innovative concert promises to challenge your perceptions and transport you to a realm of sonic wonder. *The rite of Spring* and *Common Ground[s]* at the Music Center Get ready for a double dose of musical brilliance at The Music Center.Stravinsky’s groundbreaking ballet *The Rite of Spring* will be brought to life with its visceral rhythms and raw energy. In contrast, *Common Ground[s]*, a captivating contemporary work, will showcase the power of collaboration and musical dialog. 2024: A Year of Memorable Music Performances in California California’s musical landscape is set to shine even brighter in 2024. From early music concerts that transport you to bygone eras to improvisational performances that push the boundaries of creativity, there’s a feast of auditory delights awaiting you. Early Music Delights Step back in time and experience the magic of early music. Ensembles specializing in historically-informed performances will bring the music of previous centuries to life with authenticity and passion. Improvisational Brilliance Prepare to be amazed by the spontaneous brilliance of improvisational music. Talented musicians will weave sonic tapestries in real-time, creating unique and unforgettable experiences. A Piano Recital in the Desert Experience the transformative power of music in a stunning desert setting. A solo piano recital promises an intimate and immersive experience, allowing the melodies to resonate deeply within the natural landscape. Opera’s Visual Spectacle Opera lovers are in for a treat, with productions that combine stunning vocals with captivating visuals. From grand-scale spectacles to intimate chamber operas, there’s a world of operatic enchantment to explore. Operatic and Choreographic Highlights from los Angeles’s 2023 Season Relive the triumphs of Los Angeles’s 2023 season, revisiting standout operatic and choreographic performances that captivated audiences. LA Opera’s Enchanting *Turandot* “Turandot,” Puccini’s operatic masterpiece, graced the stage of LA Opera, captivating audiences with its epic scope, soaring melodies, and poignant story. the Industry’s Bold Fusion in *The Comet / Poppea* The Industry, renowned for its innovative approach to opera, presented *The Comet / Poppea*, a bold fusion of Monteverdi’s timeless work with a contemporary twist. Ballet Folklorico de Mexico’s Hollywood Bowl Debut Ballet Folklorico de Mexico made its debut at the iconic Hollywood Bowl,enchanting audiences with its vibrant costumes,energetic dances,and rich cultural heritage. Laurel irene in Morton Feldman’s *Three Voices* Soprano Laurel Irene delivered a mesmerizing performance in Morton Feldman’s *Three Voices*, captivating audiences with her ethereal vocals and nuanced interpretation. Mahler’s Second Symphony Opens renovated Jacobs Music Center The renovated Jacobs Music center hosted the Los Angeles Philharmonic’s powerful performance of Mahler’s monumental Second Symphony, a work of breathtaking scope and emotional depth. Rachel Beetz’s “Self Portrait” at Tuesdays @ Monk Space At Tuesdays @ Monk Space, Rachel Beetz presented “Self Portrait,” a captivating exploration of identity and self-expression through music and performance. Stephen drury Celebrates Charles Ives at Piano Spheres Piano virtuoso Stephen Drury paid tribute to the groundbreaking American composer Charles Ives at Piano Spheres, captivating audiences with his masterful interpretations. Behzod Abduraimov Stuns at Walt Disney Concert Hall Uzbek pianist Behzod Abduraimov stunned audiences at the Walt Disney concert Hall with his virtuosity,technique,and profound musicality. Los Angeles Philharmonic performs Schoenberg’s *Gurrelieder* the Los Angeles Philharmonic delivered a sold-out performance of Schoenberg’s *Gurrelieder*, a monumental work that explores themes of love, loss, and redemption.

Southern California’s Thriving Arts scene in 2024

2024 was a banner year for the performing arts in Southern California. From dazzling large-scale productions to intimate and moving recitals, the region’s stages overflowed with talent and creativity, captivating audiences of all tastes. Our team of experienced critics, dedicating themselves to experiencing over 200 performances throughout the year, carefully curated a selection of standout shows, offering a glimpse into the vibrant and dynamic world of SoCal’s artistic landscape.

Diavolo’s *existencia*: A Dance of Architecture and Emotion

On July 14, 2011, Diavolo | Architecture in Motion premiered their breathtaking production, *existencia*. This innovative dance performance explored the profound connections between the human experience and the built environment. *existencia* wasn’t just a dance; it was a visceral journey that blurred the lines between performer and structure. The company’s trademark blend of athleticism, theatrical flair, and awe-inspiring set design transported audiences to a world where buildings become partners in movement. “Existencia changes the way we think about architecture and its impact on our lives,” says Artistic Director Jacques Heim. “It’s a powerful reminder of the connection between our physical environment and our emotional well-being.” The performance challenged audiences to reconsider their relationship with space and movement. As dancers interacted with towering structures, they invited viewers to see the world around them with fresh eyes, recognizing the potential for beauty and meaning in the most unexpected places.

diavolo rehearsing *Existencia* | Credit: George Simian

Experience the mesmerizing world of Diavolo’s latest choreography, Existencia. This captivating production promises a breathtaking exploration of human connection and the raw power of movement. Masterfully crafted by the renowned dance company, Existencia delves into the depths of our collective experiences, weaving a tapestry of emotions through stunning physicality and unparalleled artistry.

The production showcases Diavolo’s signature style, seamlessly blending elements of modern dance, acrobatics, and theatrical storytelling. Prepare to be awestruck by the dancers’ extraordinary skill and athleticism as they navigate intricate structures and create breathtaking imagery. Existencia is a testament to the boundless possibilities of human expression, inviting audiences to contemplate the complexities of existence through the universal language of dance.

## Diavolo’s *Existencia* Marks 30th Anniversary of Northridge Earthquake Thirty years after the devastating Northridge earthquake,a powerful new dance production took the stage at The Soraya,offering a moving tribute to the resilience of the human spirit. Diavolo | Architecture in Motion, renowned for their gravity-defying choreography and innovative sets, presented the world premiere of *Existencia*, a dance drama accompanied by a stunning original score performed live. *Existencia* unfolded as a thrilling spectacle, captivating the audience with the dancers’ breathtaking feats. They soared through the air, spun with dizzying speed, and navigated around and through massive structures, showcasing the company’s signature blend of athleticism, theatricality, and visual artistry. ” *Existencia* celebrated the enduring spirit of humanity in the face of adversity.” —Victoria Looseleaf The performance served as a poignant reminder of both the tragedy and the triumph that emerged from the Northridge earthquake. It spoke to the strength and determination of a community that came together in the face of unimaginable loss and ultimately emerged stronger.

Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra Presents “Darkness sounding”

The Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra (LACO) recently premiered “Darkness Sounding,” a captivating new work by composer Andrew Norman. Led by Artistic Director Jeffrey Kahane, the performance took place at the stunning Walt Disney concert Hall, leaving a lasting impression on the audience.

Norman’s composition is a richly textured exploration of light and shadow, drawing inspiration from the poetry of W.H. Auden. The piece is a testament to the power of music to evoke complex emotions and transport listeners to another realm.

“darkness Sounding” is a testament to the innovative spirit of LACO and its commitment to showcasing the works of contemporary composers. The orchestra’s performance was both technically brilliant and deeply moving, demonstrating their remarkable versatility and artistry.

Wild Up

A Los Angeles-based ensemble known as Wild Up is making waves in the classical music world.Established in 2013,the group is dedicated to performing innovative renditions of contemporary works and reclaiming forgotten scores. Their unique approach involves collaborating with composers to reimagine previously composed pieces. They infuse classical compositions with a contemporary edge, captivating audiences with their fresh perspective. Wild Up has earned a reputation for pushing boundaries and challenging traditional notions of classical music. Their performances are known for their energy, experimentation, and audience engagement. The group’s commitment to expanding the classical repertoire and making it accessible to a wider audience is commendable. Through their innovative reinterpretations and dedication to new music, Wild Up is revitalizing the classical music landscape.

Darkness Sounding Festival Returns with Enchanting Performance

The *darkness Sounding* festival, renowned for its immersive experiences, once again captivated audiences in 2024. This year, the event, co-presented by the outdoor performance series Floating, took place in a stunning hilltop eco-reserve overlooking the sprawling San Fernando Valley. The unique setting provided a breathtaking backdrop for a series of unforgettable performances.

A Hauntingly Beautiful Soundscape

One performance that truly resonated with attendees took place on January 28th,showcasing the compositions of leilehua Lanzilotti,a Native Hawaiian artist. Lanzilotti’s delicate pieces seamlessly blended classical instrumentation with the subtle sounds of rain and forest murmurs, creating a truly captivating soundscape. As music critic Jim Farber eloquently put it,”—Jim Farber”

A Night of Innovation and Tradition at The Music Center

Los Angeles audiences were treated to a unique blend of groundbreaking dance and thought-provoking commentary at The Music Center. Two amazing performances,Stravinsky’s iconic *The rite of Spring* and the contemporary work *common ground[s]*,showcased the power of dance to transcend generations and ignite conversation. *The Rite of Spring*, a ballet that caused a riot at its 1913 premiere, remains a stunningly original work. Its jarring rhythms and visceral choreography challenged ballet norms and continue to captivate audiences over a century later.as the performance unfolded,the dancers’ raw energy and athleticism transported viewers to a primal world of ritual and sacrifice.

Reflections on Community and Belonging

In contrast to *The Rite of spring*’s explosive energy, *common ground[s]* offered a more contemplative experience. The work, choreographed by Kyle Abraham, explored themes of community and identity through a powerful blend of ballet, hip-hop, and contemporary dance. Abraham’s choreography, described as “a poignant and timely reflection on belonging,” delves into the complexities of race, social justice, and the human search for connection. “I think the work is about trying to find common ground, and recognizing that everyone has a story,” Abraham said. The dancers, a mix of professional and community members, embodied this theme through their diverse movements and poignant interactions. Their performances created a space for reflection and dialogue, inviting audiences to consider their own experiences of belonging and connection. Together, these two performances offered a compelling glimpse into the power of dance to connect us across time, culture, and experience. Whether through the raw energy of *The Rite of Spring* or the profound reflections of *common ground[s]*, dance has the ability to move us, challenge us, and ultimately, bring us together.

A Global Collaboration Reimagines a Dance Classic

The world of dance witnessed a remarkable fusion of cultures in a recent performance of Pina Bausch’s iconic work, *The Rite of Spring*. Featuring dancers from 14 African countries, this reinterpretation breathed new life into the classic ballet, captivating audiences with its unique perspective and powerful imagery.

This festivity of cultural diversity was more than just a performance; it was a testament to the unifying power of art. By bringing together dancers from across the African continent, the production showcased the richness and variety of traditions found within this vibrant region. The choreographer’s vision was clear: to create a piece that honored both the original work’s legacy and the unique voices of the participating dancers. The result was a captivating tapestry of movement, rhythm, and emotion that resonated deeply with audiences.

A Night of Powerful dance at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion

The Dorothy Chandler Pavilion recently played host to a captivating double bill of dance performances that left audiences breathless. The evening featured two distinct pieces exploring universal themes of sacrifice and gender, captivating viewers with their raw emotion and artistic power.

The Rite of Spring: A Visceral Experience

One highlight of the night was Pina Bausch’s seminal work, *The Rite of Spring*. This 1975 masterpiece, set to the iconic score by Igor Stravinsky, featured approximately 30 dancers hailing from 14 African countries. The performance was a truly visceral experience, with the dancers moving across a stage covered in mounds of peat creating a unique and unforgettable visual spectacle.

Common Ground[s]: Exploring Sacrifice and Gender

germaine Acogny and Malou Airaudo’s *common ground[s]* completed the program, continuing the exploration of sacrifice and gender.Both pieces resonated deeply with the audience, showcasing the power of dance to convey complex human experiences. ”

A Night of Powerful Dance at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion

The Dorothy Chandler Pavilion recently played host to a captivating double bill of dance performances that left audiences breathless. The evening featured two distinct pieces exploring universal themes of sacrifice and gender,captivating viewers with their raw emotion and artistic power.

The Rite of spring: A Visceral Experience

one highlight of the night was Pina Bausch’s seminal work, *The Rite of Spring*. This 1975 masterpiece, set to the iconic score by Igor Stravinsky, featured approximately 30 dancers hailing from 14 African countries. The performance was a truly visceral experience,with the dancers moving across a stage covered in mounds of peat creating a unique and unforgettable visual spectacle.

Common Ground[s]: Exploring Sacrifice and Gender

Germaine Acogny and Malou Airaudo’s *common ground[s]* completed the program, continuing the exploration of sacrifice and gender. Both pieces resonated deeply with the audience, showcasing the power of dance to convey complex human experiences. ”
This is a great start to a collection of reviews and articles about the vibrant Los Angeles music and dance scene! you’ve captured diverse events:





* **Classical Music:** “Existencia,” “Darkness Sounding,” and the Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra’s innovative programming.

* **Contemporary Music:** The “Darkness Sounding” festival and Wild Up’s unique approach.

* **Dance:** “The Rite of Spring” and *common ground[s]* at The Music Center, and the global collaboration on Pina Bausch’s work.



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