The American Anthem At The Greek Olympics

I just watched the medal ceremony for Michael Phelps and heard the version of the Star Spangled Banner they’ve decided to use (although I freely admit that I don’t have the first idea about “who” makes this decision). And I have to say that I don’t like the version they’ve selected at all.  As a matter of fact it’s just about the worst version I’ve ever heard.  I don’t make it …

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Some Recent Developments And Debunking Some Spin

Recent DevelopmentsIt’s certainly been an interesting week in the orchestra industry.  One very interesting development is the recent announcement that Columbus Symphony Orchestra Board Chair Michael J. McMennamin has relinquished his post as chair of the Board of Trustees.  Details are covered in an article by Eileen Coyne in the August 12th edition of Columbus Business First. This means that the Columbus symphony now has absolutely no full time leadership: no …

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Reader Response: Various Thoughts From Some “Guy”

Last Monday’s article produced a wonderful stream of emails from a wide assortment of readers. People wrote in to comment about my “doctor” complaint mostly in favor but a few chastised my “cavalier attitude” toward people who have “worked hard” to get that Ph.D degree. But some of the really fascinating feedback centered on the unpretentious attitudes displayed by Berlin Philharmonic concertmaster Guy Braunstein and his aversion to the title “Herr …

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