Classical Life

Esa-Pekka Salonen has been appointed composer-in-residence of the New York Philharmonic, beginning in the fall of this year. … The classical music comedy duo Igudesman & Joo launch the revival of the Philharmonic Society’s Eclectic Orange series later this month. … The Los Angeles Guitar Quartet, who serve as artistic directors, and the Los Angeles Percussion Quartet will give the world premiere of Jeffrey Holmes’ “Ymir” as part of this year’s Laguna Beach Music Festival, which commissioned the work. … A friend writes that conductor Herbert Blomstedt received a rare tusch from the Los Angeles Philharmonic on Sunday after leading the group in Bruckner’s Symphony No. 9. … On NewMusicBox, Frank J. Oteri takes up C.K. Dexter Haven’s nine-symphony challenge with a difference, limiting his choices to American composers. … The outstanding pianist Aldo Ciccolini, whose repertoire spanned wide vistas and who played a significant role in the revival of Satie, has died. One of my first assignments at the Los Angeles Times was to review him in a Liszt recital at Royce Hall. … Ukrainian forces have lost control of Sergey Prokofiev International Airport in Donetsk to rebel forces. … The Pacific Symphony has announced dates and repertoire for this year’s OC Can You Play with Us? extravaganza, which this time will include chamber music sessions as well. …