From January 26-28, 2010 the University of Michigan is hosting an American Orchestras Summit. Titled Enlarging the Circle: Creating Partnerships in Research and Performance, the organizers describe their goals as “bring[ing] together arts presenters, orchestra leaders, and academics to explore potential partnerships and strategies for confronting the many challenges that face the American orchestra today.” I’ll be participating as a panelist on the 1/27/2010 11:40 a.m. session, Thinking Outside the Box: Organizational Structures and Strategies…
Change Is Good
Regular readers have likely already noticed Adaptistration’s new look. I’ve been anxious to experiment with a grunge theme for awhile and the start of a new year seemed like a good time. But Adaptistration isn’t the only blog at Inside The Arts sporting fresh graphics, Sticks and Drones has a sporty new look and the Inside The Arts homepage features a retro makeover. Tomorrow, Scanning The Dial will join in on the fun with an updated appearance as well as a new co-author…
Here’s To A Strong 2010
By and large, 2009 was a tough year for the field and although some groups will continue to stumble in the weeds, others are making progress on finding institutional balance while several are well on the way to stabilization. For example, the Charlotte Symphony released a statement on 12/31/09 announcing a new program to build annual operating revenue following the successful completion of an ambitious bridge fund campaign. Conversely, news out of Cleveland via Zachary Lewis at The Plain Dealer reports on brewing labor issues…
Seattle Musicians Look Forward By Looking Back
It seems fitting that on the last day of 2009 we take a look at something retrospective; but in this case, retrospection serves as a foundation for looking ahead. In an article dated 12/28/2009, the Seattle Symphony & Opera Players’ Organization (SSOPO) committee chair published a frank article on behalf of his colleagues that presents the musicians’ ideas for the future… The article’s author, Seattle Symphony Orchestra (SSO) violist Tim Hale, …
Aim Product Away From Face
In response to an article from 12/22/2009, a healthy comment exchange ensued about whether or not term “product” is appropriate to use in the context of describing live, performing art. I think the topic is important enough that it deserves its own article and I’m curious to know more about what readers think on this issue…