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

By: Hannah George By: Hannah George | November 25, 2024 | People, Best of The Best, Celebrity, Events, Lifestyle Feature, 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