| I hope that we have Doc around for a whole lot longer. He has accomplished many great things in his role as a performer, and leader!
Regarding the fate of the Symphony Orchestra, it has long been my opinion that much of the "blame" regarding the problems facing many orchestras, can be placed upon the Concert Reviews written by Music Critics/"experts".
It's no secret that many amongst the population attending concerts is more interested in the social aspect of attending a concert, than they are in hearing live music. Why would they have any desire to attend, when the reviews of the Music Critics are often so negative? How many people shy away from movies that are panned by the Critics? IF the concert hall were FULL... by all means, critique to your heart's content. The Critic's audience would then have the opportunity to refute what was being said.
In as much as the Music Critic's job ultimately depends upon having an Orchestra to critique, doesn't it make much more sense for them to play a major role in promoting the Orchestra? Maybe then, the Orchestra's survival rate would increase. Wouldn't that be nice to see?
Best always,
Bruce |