Things That Make You Go “Buh?” – Columbus

Although the 2008 Orchestra Compensation Reports were a big hit this year, they meant a week without reflecting on some significant developments in the field. In particular, the Columbus Symphony Orchestra (CSO) crossed the self-imposed line in the sand for cancelling operations last Sunday, June 1st. Since then, the organization has dismissed all but the executive staff and according to the Columbus Dispatch, CSO Board President Robert “Buzz” Trafford terminated the collective bargaining agreement (CBA) with the organization’s musicians although the contract does not expire until August 31, 2008. This isn’t the first time this executive board implemented a short sighted decision but the real head-scratcher is Trafford’s comment to the Dispatch where he was quoted as saying that cancelling the CBA “has no impact on the negotiations” with musicians. Although I tend to avoid arguing with an idiot out of fear that they’ll drag me down to their level then beat me with experience, this foolish statement deserves some attention…

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Things That Make You Go “Buh?” – San Antonio

In an unanticipated announcement, the beleaguered but plucky San Antonio Symphony announced that they would not renew music director Larry Rachleff’s contract after it expires following the 2007-2008 season. Unfortunately, the reasoning behind the abrupt decision released by the orchestra’s administrative leadership only leaves more questions than answers…

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Things That Make You Go “Buh?” – California Symphony

It’s barely been two months and I’ve already come across some material for the second installment in the Things That Make You Go "Buh?" series. How would you feel if your local ABC affiliate used the following phrase to define your in-school education program [emphasis added]: "[the program] is the brainchild of maestro Barry Jekowsky who believes it’s about exposure, not excellence."…

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Things That Make You Go “Buh?” – Fort Wayne

Every now and then I read an article that reports a situation that is so absolutely baffling all I can do is think to myself "Buh?" As such, I’ve decided to start a new series of articles entitled Things That Make You Go "Buh?". The inspiration for this series stems from a well written article appearing in the 06/27/06 edition of FortWayne.com by Kevin Leininger…

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