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Dudamel, a product of Venezuela's famous "El Sistema" ("the system") which teaches poor children classical music, led the orchestra through John Adams "City Noir," a work reflecting the dark world of Los Angeles in the 1940s.
The charismatic conductor followed it up with a performance of Mahler's First Symphony, which earned a rousing ovation lasting several minutes.
Actor Andy Garcia was among the stars waxing lyrical afterwards, describing Dudamel as "absolutely 'magnifique.'"
"Both performances, the Adams and Mahler were rigorous and intense," Garcia enthused. "I can't believe that Gustavo conducted from memory."
Legendary music producer Quincy Jones was among celebrities who flocked to the concert for Thursday's gala.
"Gustavo will bring a whole new perspective to the Philharmonic," Jones said before the performance. "Diversity first -- that's a key word."
Actress Angela Bassett meanwhile said Dudamel could have the same impact on classical music as Tiger Woods had on golf.
"I think that as Tiger brought new eyes and interest to the golf world, Dudamel will do the same for the concert hall world," Bassett said.
Other stars in the audience included Oscar winners Tom Hanks and Sidney Poitier, novelist Judith Krantz, and actors Don Johnson and Rachel Griffiths.
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The charismatic conductor followed it up with a performance of Mahler's First Symphony, which earned a rousing ovation lasting several minutes.
Actor Andy Garcia was among the stars waxing lyrical afterwards, describing Dudamel as "absolutely 'magnifique.'"
"Both performances, the Adams and Mahler were rigorous and intense," Garcia enthused. "I can't believe that Gustavo conducted from memory."
Legendary music producer Quincy Jones was among celebrities who flocked to the concert for Thursday's gala.
"Gustavo will bring a whole new perspective to the Philharmonic," Jones said before the performance. "Diversity first -- that's a key word."
Actress Angela Bassett meanwhile said Dudamel could have the same impact on classical music as Tiger Woods had on golf.
"I think that as Tiger brought new eyes and interest to the golf world, Dudamel will do the same for the concert hall world," Bassett said.
Other stars in the audience included Oscar winners Tom Hanks and Sidney Poitier, novelist Judith Krantz, and actors Don Johnson and Rachel Griffiths.
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