This is not merely an ASO/ASOC issue, as the suffering and the threat of failure extends far beyond us to the world of persons regardless of age, color, country or creed, who make and need the art of music in their lives to maintain wholeness and health, and to feed our collective soul. The world is watching. We must not fail.
I suggest....
The state of Georgia should be ashamed of their poor support of the arts per capita.
If we are about to lose the support of major Atlanta-based contributors due to ASO deficit spending, this is yet a further embarrassment for corporate Atlanta.
ASO and WAC development staff bear the burden of finding big money donors. Their failure is an embarrassment to the organization despite difficult economic times.
The CEO is responsible to manage these factors, thus both business judgement as well as commitment to arts advocacy remains under scrutiny.
The sad reality in the current moment is that the ultimate burden will now fall to many lesser donors and the ASO artists themselves, less the quality of our product continues to suffer further.
I did not received one donor solicitation from marketing regarding the seriousness of this event prior to the lockout, nor have I been privy to any effort of the WAC/CEO to lobby the state of Georgia on behalf of our orchestra, or the city of Atlanta itself.
It's time for new arts leadership that makes it clear that this is more than simply business. Atlantans need to step up their efforts toward success, to make a true sacrifice for the arts, and to be example to the world. Moreover, it's time for politicians who believe in the arts to step forward and take a risk.
If the arts are your passion, if you believe the arts are necessary, then your belief and your passion will be evidenced in your action.
Make your donation.
Be on the picket line.
Mentor young musicians.
Write to the governor.
Never give up!
We must not fail.
It's not just business.
Diana Reed Strommen
Alto 1
Member Since 2000
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