LA Philharmonic’s 2025/26 Insight Series: Beyond the Concert Hall

The Los Angeles Philharmonic is set to redefine how we experience art with its newly announced 2025/26 Insight projects. This series goes far beyond traditional concerts, offering a vibrant array of interdisciplinary events that connect music to broader cultural and social themes. Described by Senior Programming Director Julia Ward as a program that “calls on its audiences to be active rather than passive participants,” Insight is an exciting expansion of Music & Artistic Director Gustavo Dudamel’s vision to foster cross-cultural understanding through art.

A Celebration of Sonic Pioneers

The season kicks off with the “Cosmic-Classical Sounds of Terry Riley,” celebrating the legendary composer’s 90th birthday with a deep dive into his catalog. This event includes a listening party at the Japanese American Cultural & Community Center (JACCC) followed by a celebratory concert at The Ford. Later, Insight partners with The Ford for “Black Horror Halloween,” a series that explores the genre’s role as social commentary. This includes a special live episode of the podcast Vibe Check with author Tananarive Due and screenings of iconic films like Jordan Peele’s Get Out and George A. Romero’s Night of the Living Dead. These events use film and discussion to examine themes of racism and inequity.

Immersive and Unexpected Artistic Journeys

The series continues to push boundaries with its “Body and Sound” festival, which invites audiences to experience music in unexpected ways. Events include a collaborative presentation with MOCA and artist Haegue Yang, and a unique dining experience called “Ancestral Table,” where a shared meal and performance examine themes of migration and cultural legacy. Another highlight is the “Haas in the Dark” performance by the JACK Quartet, which will perform Georg Friedrich Haas’s String Quartet No. 3 in total darkness, creating a uniquely physical concert experience. The season concludes with composer John Luther Adams’s outdoor work, “Crossing Open Ground,” set in Elysian Park, inviting listeners to engage with both the music and the natural world around them.

Engage with Art in a New Light

The 2025/26 Insight series is an innovative and ambitious approach to arts programming, blending music with film, visual art, and even cuisine. By offering these diverse and immersive experiences at venues across Los Angeles, the LA Phil is building a more dynamic relationship with its audience, encouraging participation and thoughtful exploration. Whether you’re a classical music enthusiast or simply curious, this series promises something for everyone. Tickets become available in October 2025 at Tickets Center, so mark your calendars for a season of art that is as “fun and unexpected” as it is profound.