Drew McManus on the Orchestra business | est. 2003

Welcome Chicago Tribune Readers…

Sun, Jun 6, 2008
…thank you for taking a moment to stop by and I hope you enjoy your time here. The 2008 Orchestra Compensation Reports mentioned in the article by Charles Storch are scheduled for publication between Monday, June 2nd and Friday, June 6th (with a bonus "subscribers only" article on Saturday, June 7th). If the Orchestra Compensation

Compensation Reports Featured In Today’s Chicago Tribune.

Sun, Jun 6, 2008
The Chicago Tribune published an article by Charles Storch today which previews information from next week’s orchestra Compensation Reports. Charles uses the topic to take a closer look at the local Chicago scene and he comes up with some observations that absolutely worth your time to read. Click here to read the article.

Conventions, Compensation, And Blogging

Fri, May 5, 2008
For those with plans to attend the National Performing Arts Convention in Denver next week, make a note to attend The Online Salon Movement, Thursday, June 12, 2008; 4:30-5:45pm, in Room 303 at the Colorado Convention Center where my fellow panelists and I will engage in an inclusive discussion about how the "blogosphere" continues to

Cleveland and Cincinnati Musicians Speak Out On Columbus

Thu, May 5, 2008
One of the most common email topics I receive regarding the Columbus affair is from readers wondering what the orchestra musicians in nearby Cleveland and Cincinnati think about what is transpiring. Unfortunately, I could only respond by saying that beyond personal (and private) communications I’ve had with some of those musicians there has been no

Out Of The Circle Of Trust (kinda)

Wed, May 5, 2008
Earlier this week, I posted an article about the new print-on-demand store I opened up at LuLu.com. As a result of some previous experience with LuLu.com I determined they were a better fit for my publishing needs than my previous on-demand provider, CafePress.com. Since then I’ve encountered one aspect of LuLu.com’s service than I am

Why Do They Keep Opening Their Mouths?

Tue, May 5, 2008
I finally had a moment to listen to the WOSU Open Line with Fred Andrle interview with Columbus Symphony Orchestra (CSO) Board President Robert "Buzz" Trafford and Executive Director Tony Beadle and I have to say that it never ceases to surprise me how quickly executive leaders can get in over their head. Here are

Happy Memorial Day, 2008

Mon, May 5, 2008
Whether you’re home all day enjoying the holiday with family and friends or your orchestra is putting on a performance today, try to take a few moments to remember the reason for the holiday. Furthermore, take a moment to remember that the single largest employer of full-time professional musicians is the United States Armed Forces.

Looking Ahead To Organizational Blogging

Fri, May 5, 2008
After posting a blog earlier in the week about the Edmonton Symphony’s new blog, I received a number of emails from marketing professionals pointing out blogs they currently like and asking a bunch of questions about the nuts and bolts behind starting an organizational blog. Coincidentally, one of my favorite geek blogs, problogger.net, posted a

In Columbus, Why Read When You Can Watch?

Thu, May 5, 2008
On Tuesday, May 20, 2008 the musicians of the Columbus Symphony Orchestra (CSO) held a press conference to release a proposed financial plan prepared by Wachovia Securities Vice-President, Daniel R. LaMacchia. The musicians assert that this plan will allow the organization to move forward with an uninterrupted 2008/09 season as well as produce financial stability

Berlin Philharmonic Fire Damage Marginalized

Wed, May 5, 2008
Although an official inspection is pending, Reuters reported that German firefighting officials believe the damage was not as bad as originally estimated. According to the article, this was accomplished by using foam and very little direct water to subdue the fire. More details here.
Previous Next