The relentless coverage of Esa-Pekka Salonen and the LA Philharmonic's long kiss goodnight is an emotional affair for the city's classical music scene. Salonen's appointment as Music Director in 1992 ushered in an era of growth for the orchestra, a mission dramatically realized with the creation of Disney Hall, a temple to all things majestic and beautiful. Now, the venerable institution prepares to welcome boy king Gustavo Dudamel, a charismatic, photogenic prodigy set to enchant critics and lure young audiences (that means you) to the ball. Over the course of several performances, he conducts Ligeti, Strauss, Mozart, and Beethoven.