The worse thing that can happen to any art form is Orthodoxy, that awful suggestion that there is only one true way. Orthodoxy is quite possibly the major reason why there are so many problems in classical music today. Orthodoxy impedes free thinking, feeds the idea of believer vs. heathen, and attempts to suppress dissent. In my most recent post I set out to highlight an example of doctrinal thinking that feeds the perception that classical music is elitist. The easiest way to expose said orthodoxy, of course, is to challenge it publically by throwing out an outrageous idea. Looks like I succeeded.
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IT’S SCHOENBERG’S FAULT!
I did an interview with a reporter from Minnesota Public Radio yesterday exploring the difficulties being faced by the Minnesota Orchestra and the St. Paul Chamber Orchestra. After a thorough dissection of the mistakes that led up to this current mess with both orchestras, and much of the classical music industry thereto, I have come to one undeniable conclusion – it’s Schoenberg’s fault.
Dueling Band-Woes
Hot fun in the summertime seems like a lost cause in the Twin Cities. Instead, it looks like we will be treated to a summer of great discontent, followed by only the Gods know what. There’s only one guarantee – this is not going to be pretty.
Amateur Hour
Every once and a while I find the need to write a blog that will garner me a whole bunch of hate mail. I can’t wait for the inbox once this one is published. Those choir people are going to be up in arms.
Better Late Than Never…..
This is a post for all young conductors out there. Let me tell you about the day I was invited to conduct the Cleveland Orchestra….. and turned them down.
The Sinking of the Minnesota
Great orchestras are like great ships of the line. They cruise regally above the waves, guns/brass blaring, a mighty vision of sight and sound to all who bear witness. But it’s below decks where trouble starts, and no amount of noise on deck can stop a leaking hull.
The Death of the Learnéd Musician
I’ve noticed a very disturbing trend in musicians that must be rectified. It is a problem that might not be immediately noticed by the general public but, none-the-less, promises to cheapen our art to the point where live performances will become irrelevant. It can be summed up in three words – “Think for yourself.”
NEC Races For A Cure
The last couple of weeks has given us an interesting contrast in crisis management. We have seen two institutions make missteps that have significantly enraged their constituencies, and once the backlash turned into a frontlash (so to speak) these situations have been managed in polar opposite ways. It’s a pity that the music world continues to learn nothing from the real world when it comes to PR/Crisis Management.