Tom Hanks, Quincy Jones, Jason Schwartzman praise L.A. Philharmonic maestro Gustavo Dudamel

Los Angeles is about to become a major force in classical music.

The new music director for the Los Angeles Philharmonic -- Gustavo Dudamel -- made his stunning debut Thursday night.

The charismatic Venezuelan-born conductor, only 28, already has been named one of Time magazine's "100 Most Influential People" and has been profiled on "60 Minutes."

Dudamel led the L.A. Phil in a program featuring the world premiere of John Adams' "City Noir" and Gustav Mahler's First Symphony. If you missed it, the performance was recorded for a national PBS telecast and a DVD release.

Gustavo told the Dish Rag that he is "humbled, a bit overwhelmed and eternally grateful. I never thought that I would be here. I'm still in shock about it all. "

Celebs in the audience sang Gustavo's praises.

"Gustavo is the ultimate classical rock star," said Quincy Jones. "What he brings to Los Angeles is a transcendence of musical talent. Classical is back, baby."

Tom Hanks and his wife, Rita Wilson, were blown away by Gustavo. "I was sitting there mesmerized," said Tom. "Truly, his talent is awesome. "

"I was literally moved to tears," admitted Rita. "The fact that he's only 28 ... who is this guy's parents? He's just simply compelling to watch."

Dana Delany raved, "To have that maturity level at that age is unbelievable. He and the orchestra are just perfect. "

Don Johnson called the performance "stupendous!"

Producer Craig Zadan predicts "Los Angeles is now taking its place as one of top cultural spots in America and the world. Gustavo is single-handedly the best ambassador classical music can have. "

Director-producer R.J. Cutler revealed, "I've rarely been so moved by a performance as this one. He's truly a musical phenomenon of our time."

And actor Jason Schwartzman, who stars as a neurotic  private investigator in HBO's brilliant new series "Bored to Death," said, "I was speechless. Besides, he's a year younger than me. What a cute conductor kid."

Producer-director John Wells brought his kids to the performance. "They were as into it as any rock concert. L.A. is lucky he's here."

The mayor, of course, also had high praise. "Los Angeles has a true genius on its hands," said Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa. "This orchestra is considered one of the best in the world and with good reason.  We are truly honored to have them both here."

Click for information on L.A. Phil events and tickets, 

Reporting: Leah Sydney

Photos: Gustavo Dudamel conducts at a Target Free Community event. WireImage
Middle, Quincy Jones, L.A. Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa and Dudamel.
Below, Tom and Rita Hanks. Credit: Mathew Imaging

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