Gustavo Dudamel first visited New York at 14.

He jumped on the giant keyboard at FAO Schwarz.

Three decades later, he has returned as music director of the New York Philharmonic.

Now 45, he took over last week after 17 seasons leading the Los Angeles Philharmonic.

He is the 27th man to head the New York orchestra.

Dudamel grew up in Venezuela’s El Sistema music education program.

In 1995, he played violin with the National Children’s Symphony of Venezuela at the United Nations.

He recalled seeing the Twin Towers and the Statue of Liberty.

Then he was taken to the toy store.

He said it felt like paradise.

His opening concert at Radio City Music Hall on Sept. 10 featured Lizzo, St. Vincent, Joaquina and Aaron Tveit.

Host Liev Schreiber said Dudamel was hard to describe.

The next day, Dudamel performed at a 9/11 remembrance event.

He said music cannot undo what happened, but it can give sorrow a voice.

Subscription concerts began this week with Prokofiev’s Fifth Symphony.

He conducted it for his Philharmonic debut in 2007.

Oboist Sherry Sylar said his chemistry and passion are infectious.

Ticket revenue is up 8% over last year, and September seats sold are up 20%.

Dudamel has a five-year contract and will spend about 15 weeks with the orchestra each season.