Relax, It's Not A Crisis
Thu, May 5, 2011
by Drew McManus
In case you missed it, WQXR hosted a live discussion panel webcast titled American Orchestras: Endangered Species? yesterday which you can watch online at wqxr.org or in the embedded video after the break. In complete candor, I haven’t watched the entire session yet myself but I was disappointed at the onset by phrasing of the
Speaking Of Labor Relations…
Wed, May 5, 2011
by Drew McManus
It appears that the intense labor dispute at the Brazilian Symphony Orchestra (OSB) has moved to the next level. Following management’s decision to officially dismiss nearly half of the rostered musicians, the orchestra has scheduled auditions in Rio de Janeiro, New York City, and London…
A Letter To Terry Teachout
Tue, May 5, 2011
by Drew McManus
Dear Terry, I read your Wall Street Journal (WSJ) article from 4/29/2011 and feel that not only are your conclusions unfounded but your perspective on the business of performing arts organizations is becoming dangerously detached from authenticity…
Introducing Adaptistration Jobs
Mon, May 5, 2011
by Drew McManus
Let me begin by issuing a giant thank you to everyone who took an early interest in this project and I’m very pleased to announce that today marks the official launch of Adaptistration Jobs, which I’m sure will rapidly become the go-to online resource for finding administrative openings in orchestra, opera, and chamber groups. Not
Who Knew Conductors Could Be So Deep?
Fri, Apr 4, 2011
by Drew McManus
I kid, I kid. But in all seriousness, Sticks and Drones co-authors and music directors, Bill Eddins and Ron Spigelman, each posted articles this week that will get you thinking. One examines the enemy within and the other looks in the same direction for support…
Some Thoughts On The New Mexico Symphony Orchestra
Thu, Apr 4, 2011
by Drew McManus
Since it was announced that the New Mexico Symphony Orchestra (NMSO) board voted to file for Chapter 7 (liquidation) bankruptcy earlier this month, it came as a surprise to some but not so much to others. But before we get too far along in this piece, let me start off by flipping the full disclosure
Adaptistration Jobs Is On The Way
Wed, Apr 4, 2011
by Drew McManus
Set aside Monday, May 2, 2011 on your calendar as that marks the official launch of Adaptistration Jobs, the jobs board for admin positions in orchestra, opera, and chamber organizations of all budget sizes. It is a completely free service; meaning, it’s free to post jobs, free to search, and free to apply. No limits
Get Your TEDx Michigan Ave Tickets Today
Tue, Apr 4, 2011
by Drew McManus
On Saturday, May 7th, 2011 Chicago plays host to TEDx Michigan Ave, an independently organized TED event that will focus on how to strengthen and evolve the arts industry. The event features four groups of speakers and will run from 9:00am through 5:00pm. I’m honored to be one of the speakers alongside a terrific lineup
TAFTO 2011 Contribution: Proper Discord
Mon, Apr 4, 2011
by Drew McManus
Wrapping up the 2011 program is a contribution from none other than the nameless and faceless entity that captains the culture blog vessel known as Proper Discord (twitter). Known for a singular wit and an obsessive compulsion to point out that the Emperor isn’t wearing any clothes and in fact, should really get that thing
TAFTO 2011 Contribution: Gerard Schwarz
Fri, Apr 4, 2011
by Drew McManus
You never know what a TAFTO effort might produce. In some cases, it can spawn the birth of a new concertgoer and in others, it might plant the seeds of ongoing large gift support. In today’s contribution, Seattle Symphony music director, Gerard Schwarz, offers up a personal experience that demonstrates the latter. If you’ve ever
