Classical Music is being assaulted by management everywhere. See this article about the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra.
Note in the 6th paragraph the author points out that a well-known philanthropist in the area withdrew a residual bequest because she had lost confidence in the current board leadership. I, too, have lost confidence in the boards of the WAC and ASO. We are in a unique situation to call attention to these destroyers of art and put a stop to their onslaught. Let's go forth and save the music!
What is particularly sad about this one is that the RPO has always been closely allied with the Eastman School. RPO used to get all the top soloists as guest artists, who came both for the quality of the orchestra (this was in David Zinman days) as well as the opportunity for recitals and master classes at ESM in conjunction with their RPO appearance. Eastman students had the chance to hear world-class performances right there in Rochester, their professors often played in the orchestra, and there were professional connections that could be made as well.
ReplyDeleteWhat's happening there also points out the hazards of being overly dependent on any one donor. Eastman Kodak owned that town for years - now EK is gone and others will have to step up if they want to maintain their arts organizations.