Striking A Chord: Inside The Walt Disney Concert Hall's Glamorous 2003 Debut

By: Hannah George By: Hannah George | November 25, 2024 | People, Events, Lifestyle Feature, Best of The Best, Celebrity, Art, Entertainment, Community, Apple News, City Life, Guides,

Journey back to October 2003, when the Walt Disney Concert Hall opened its doors for a dazzling three-day gala celebration.

Fireworks Finale at the Walt Disney Concert Hall; PHOTO BY AL SEIB

The Walt Disney Concert Hall stands as one of L.A.’s most recognizable landmarks. After a competitive decision process, Frank Gehry was tapped in 1987 to bring Lillian B. Disney’s $50 million vision to life, honoring her late husband’s passion for music. Sixteen years in the making, the 293,000-square-foot architectural marvel finally opened its doors in October 2003, kicking off with a star-studded, 3-day celebration. Esa-Pekka Salonen led the LA Phil’s inaugural “Phil The House” concerts, setting the stage for the orchestra’s first season inside the now-monumentalized establishment. Nearly two decades later, Angeleno looks back at the unforgettable moments that captivated the city’s top music lovers and power players.

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Esa-Pekka Salonen & LA Philharmonic; PHOTO COURTESY BY CARLO ALLEGRI