The Film Scores Los Angeles Philharmonic, conducted by Esa-Pekka Salonen. The cover of this new cd release likely lets prospective buyers know what to expect when they listen to it. Salonen's name is printed on the top of the cover to the left and the name Bernard Herrmann is to the right in a slightly lower position. I would not be surprised if the cds were on sale in the lobby on the night of the performance and it was a good marketing strategy to release the cd around the time of the concert. Salonen is known for his innovative choice of repertoire in the concert hall and is not afraid of the new and controversial.
Most benefit concerts feature a world renowned concert artist and more standard concert hall fare.
I find it fascinating and rather daring of Salonen to program a film music concert for sich a fete. But I'm not really surprised. Still, and interesting choice of program for a benefit, one that might be more suited a Hollywood Bowl concert. Those who want a reading that is exactly like the film soundtrack will probably not find this to their liking. Those who are willing to hear the music on its own terms in a powerful personal interpretation by Salonen, will not be disappointed.