In 2017, Kamasi Washington, acclaimed composer, bandleader and saxophonist, wrote Harmony of Difference, a celebration of human diversity encapsulated through diverging melodies that unite harmoniously. Since its release, the six-movement suite has been widely celebrated by both critics and listeners alike. Eight years after its release, Washington is gracing the new David Geffen Galleries at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) for three nights of unprecedented sonic experience — performing his album in its entirety live for the first time. 

On June 26, 27 and 28, Harmony of Difference will reverberate across the 110,000 gallery space as Washington leads a group of over 100 performers, marking the first public program in the David Geffen galleries. Many members, alongside Washington, are LA natives, and have collaborated with him across his storied career. The building will also accrue its own role in the piece, acting as an acoustic instrument that houses the performance. 

The David Geffen Galleries, which concluded major construction in late 2024, will have their official opening in April 2026. Straddling Wilshire Boulevard, the galleries feature floating staircases and floor-to-ceiling windows that capture the grandeur of the museum, with construction led by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Peter Zumthor. The galleries’ namesake is in recognition of the $150 million gift from film producer David Geffen, while the Elaine Wynn Wing is in honor of the trustee and board co-chair’s $50 million leadership contributions. 

As LACMA prepares for the David Geffen Galleries’ grand opening in 2026, Washington’s performance allows the public an early look into the new space before it is closed for art installation. This summer, the building will gradually come alive as dining and retail spaces open, and outdoor sculptures are installed. For those who wish to witness Washington’s once-in-a-lifetime performance, a limited number of tickets will go on sale on the LACMA website on three release dates: May 2, May 22 and June 12.