Please hold for the L.A. Philharmonic

Beginning Wednesday, callers to Los Angeles’ 311 information center will have something to listen to while they’re on hold.

As part of L.A.’s 225th-anniversary celebration, the city is introducing Hear in L.A., a program through which callers will hear music from Los Angeles artists while waiting to speak with an assistant.

Callers will still be greeted by the voice of Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa welcoming them to the 311 system. But instead of hearing silence after entering “1” or “2” (for English or Spanish), they’ll hear Los Angeles musicians before being connected.

Karen Constine, interim general manager of the city’s Department of Cultural Affairs, said that through June, callers will hear classical music performed by the Los Angeles Philharmonic, Los Angeles Opera and the Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra. After that, she said, the city plans to feature the work of L.A.’s emerging musical artists as the next phase.

“As we go forward, the idea is to showcase all the different musical artistry in L.A. and find new ways to incorporate it,” she said. “It’s an evolving program; we’ll keep revisiting it based on feedback.”

Callers within the city boundaries and some adjacent areas may access the information line by dialing 311. Outside that area, they may dial (213) 473-3231 or the toll-free number, (866) 452-2489. The 311 call center provides non-emergency information about city departments and services.