FIRST OFF . . .

The Music Center’s planned Walt Disney Concert Hall moved a step closer to reality Tuesday with the selection of Peck/Jones Construction and HCB Contractors as joint general contractors for the future home of the L.A. Philharmonic. Frederick Nicholas, chairman of the hall’s committee, also said the architect for the project--initiated by a $50-million gift from Disney’s widow Lillian--has yet to be chosen, although design concepts by four candidates have been reviewed. In November, the candidates--Frank Gehry of Los Angeles, Gottfried Bohm of Koln, West Germany, Hans Hollein of Vienna, and James Stirling and Michael Wilford of London--will submit a further presentation, including site models, project documentations and plans, Nicholas said. The final decision is expected by the end of the year. Peck/Jones was the general contractor for the Orange County Performing Arts Center, and HCB built the Museum of Contemporary Art. Both firms are based in Los Angeles.