When It Comes To Diversity, Are We Just Churning Butter With A Toothpick?

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I keep meaning to find time to write something on the topic of diversity and representation in response to an article on that subject by Anthony Tommasini in the 7/16/2020 edition of the New York Times. In a nutshell, Tommasini attempts to support the conclusion that diversity on-stage can be improved if orchestras abandon screened auditions. It fails to stick a landing thanks in large part because screened auditions don’t have …

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New Union Rules Provide A Glimpse Into The Future Of Our New Normal

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Recently, Joe Patti published an article at ArtsHacker that examines a COVID-19 reopening guide from the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE), the union which has members working in performing arts venues, convention centers, movies, and television productions. If you work in an environment that employs IATSE members, it is worth reviewing the guidelines to get a sense of what the union expects working conditions to look like. Granted, these …

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State Of Employment Poll & Review August 3 – 9

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Following last week’s increase in overall under-employed and unemployed statuses, responses remained steady at those new levels. Weekly Report Responses from Administrators continue to show a migration from those indicating being furloughed to fully laid off. The only real uptick this last week was the increase in those working at reduced hours and pay. Salaried musicians maintained saw zero responses from respondents being paid regular salary and benefits and a small increase …

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Not Everyone Is Cancelling

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There’s nothing quite like a topic grenade to round out the week. Today’s entry comes from Fort Worth where the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra (FWSO) recently announced they intend to produce live, indoor concert events in the fall with heavily reduced audiences and strict social distancing rules. Before anyone decides to jump on the pro/con bandwagon, think back to June when we looked at efforts underway at the Dallas Symphony to …

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Indianapolis Cancels Season One Month Before Labor Agreement Expires

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Less than a month after public discord over growing labor disputes, the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra (ISO) announced it is cancelling the 20-21 “indoor” season. The press statement isn’t available on the ISO’s website, rather, it was published via several media outlets. Of interest in the statement is the following passage: We will also be meeting to discuss how the musicians will be supported in the interim, with a priority on providing …

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