The Los Angeles Philharmonic has long been regarded as one of the most revered orchestras in the classical music world. During the second weekend of April, they entered uncharted territory with a landmark performance at Coachella. Renowned for the pristine acoustics of Frank Gehry’s Walt Disney Concert Hall and summer shows at the Hollywood Bowl, the LA Phil stepped outside their established habitat into the unpredictable fields of a major music festival, and the impact was felt strongly.
A roadside billboard leading to the festival made the stakes clear. It featured conductor Gustavo Dudamel’s face alongside the words, “This will be a first for all of us.” For an orchestra that typically commands attentive, seated audiences, the shift to a high-energy, multi-stage environment posed an unusual challenge.
Classical Power Meets Festival Stage
Skepticism lingered ahead of the set. Classical music’s nuances can struggle to resonate in open-air venues, especially amid the sonic competition of simultaneous performances. Though composer Hans Zimmer once delivered a memorable Coachella show, the LA Phil’s appearance still raised questions about whether the format could succeed.
But any doubts were swiftly erased as the first notes of Richard Wagner’s “Ride of the Valkyries” thundered through the Outdoor Stage. The orchestra’s presence was not only sonically formidable but emotionally gripping. Each string and brass swell cut through the desert air, captivating a massive audience during the coveted golden hour slot.
By fusing canonical compositions with a wide-ranging lineup of guest artists, the LA Phil produced what many considered one of the standout sets of the weekend.
A Genre-Bending Showcase
Under Gustavo Dudamel’s 17-year leadership, the LA Phil has embraced an adventurous spirit, challenging classical norms and expectations. This Coachella performance further reflected that ethos. Rather than structuring a traditional program, the ensemble approached the night as “Gustavo’s mixtape,” according to the LA Phil’s chief programming officer in a statement to LAist.
This experimental approach opened the door for a dynamic lineup of guest performances, including Icelandic singer Laufey, country artist Maren Morris, and EDM DJ Zedd. Morris and Zedd were joined by a rousing gospel choir. These moments were stitched into orchestral staples like Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony and John Williams’ iconic “Imperial March.”
The genre-spanning energy continued with Becky G, who performed her hit “Shower,” and Argentine electro-trap duo CA7RIEL & Paco Amoroso, who overcame initial nerves to ignite a dance-worthy collaboration with the orchestra.
A Grand Finale and a Bittersweet Goodbye
Audiences witnessed a dramatic end to the evening when hip-hop great LL Cool J organized an impactful medley of songs like “Rock the Bells” and “Mama Said Knock You Out,” with an overwhelming LA Phil orchestral force elevating the climax into a wild roar.
Yet for all its celebratory flair, the performance carried a note of poignancy. This season marks Gustavo Dudamel’s final chapter with the LA Phil before he departs to lead the New York Philharmonic. If this Coachella debut was his farewell gesture, it was a resounding one, with thousands chanting “Gustavo!” as the sun dipped below the desert horizon.
