LA Phil’s Dudamel to deliver USC commencement address

Los Angeles Philharmonic Music and Artistic Director Gustavo Dudamel will deliver the keynote address at USC’s 143rd commencement ceremony at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum in May, university officials announced on Monday.

Dudamel, a globally recognized conductor who has led the LA Phil since 2009, was selected for his artistic achievements and community impact.

Gustavo Dudamel has transformed how this city experiences music,” USC President Beong-Soo Kim said in a statement. “He is living proof that joy and excellence are transformative qualities, and that is exactly the message we want to convey as we send our graduates into the world.”

The ceremony is scheduled for May 14 and will honor the university’s Class of 2026.

Jason King, dean of the USC Thornton School of Music, said Dudamel’s career reflects the university’s emphasis on artistic collaboration and cultural connection.

“Gustavo Dudame brings these values to life at the highest level, combining extraordinary artistic achievement with a deep commitment to education, leadership, and the power of culture to unite communities across cultural boundaries,” King said.

Dudamel has served as music and artistic director of the Los Angeles Philharmonic since 2009 and has conducted performances at Walt Disney Concert Hall, the Hollywood Bowl and venues around the world.

He has also led youth-focused initiatives, including the Youth Orchestra Los Angeles program, which serves students from underserved communities.

Born in Venezuela, Dudamel was trained through El Sistema, a national music education program focused on youth development through orchestral instruction.

He is expected to become music and artistic director of the New York Philharmonic later this year.