Making Music

Last year, patrons in Symphony Hall’s Grand Tier weren’t able to see conductor David Atherton, but at least they could hear the orchestra’s fine quality. Now, with improved sight lines, we find there is a conductor but no orchestra. Choosing thusly, management has confused its priorities and shortchanged the musicians and public alike.

Musicians, having so often subsidized the orchestra, have justly suggested that management take a much bigger share of the burden. For the time being, management should make full penance for its admitted mismanagement, drastically cut its staff to skeleton dimensions and work harder with competence (as many successful orchestras regularly do). The correct perspective should be artfully presented live music (classical, pops, Christmas, etc.), and you need fully compensated, quality musicians for that.

Just why are the musicians openly criticizing David Atherton and sticking to their financial guns under such inflicted hardship? Partly, it seems to have been gross overspending for unneeded guest artists and non-contract substitutes.

Musicians, forgotten during Symphony Hall’s gaudy gala, remembered when needed for selfless efforts during the spring crisis, and again forgotten during the current labor dispute, must wonder where Joel Grey is now when they really need a “Cabaret” benefit.

The people of San Diego, who thought they so generously erased management’s deficit, have not been told the full story, financial and otherwise, due to superficial and incomplete investigative journalism. Yet, they must certainly see that, historically, managements and conductors have come and gone, but the musicians have made San Diego their home and wish to remain.

This time our sights should be (faultlessly) on them.

ROBERT F. LOISELLE

San Diego