I promised some comments about my concert last night at the new Walt Disney Concert Hall. The concert itself was quite enjoyable. It was Murray Perahia leading the Academy of Saint Martin in the Fields in some chestnuts by Bach, Mozart and Beethoven. The playing was precise, and the accoustics clear and warm.
As for the hall, what struck me most was the beauty of the auditorium. I really like the exterior of the building, with its curves of stainless steel, but now that I've seen it, I like the interior even more. The auditorium is almost entirely of honey-toned wood. The room's shape, particularly the curved walls and "billowing" ceiling, creates a sense that one is in an enormous sailing ship. The audience surrounds the orchestra, and there is a great sense of intimacy between listeners and players. Last night I was in the balcony, which is about as far from the stage as one can get, and I was quite satisfied with the sight lines from my seat. Tomorrow night I sit in the Terrace, which is the middle section. (This is where I will be seated for all the concerts in my subscription.) Later on in the season, I hope to have the opportunity to purchase individual tickets for the orchestra section and what they call the "View" section, which is behind the orchestra, facing the conductor.
A stunning spray of organ pipes (they've been likened to a mega-size order of French fries) provide a visual centerpiece in the hall. (The organ is still being tuned and will not be making its debut until next year. It takes that long to tune an organ, I have learned.) The seats are quite comfortable and covered in a highly colorful contemporary floral pattern fabric.
Daytime tours of the hall begin November 1. If you are visiting L.A., I highly recommend you check out this new landmark.
