Baltimore Symphony continues to feel recession's grip
The news of more pay cuts and furloughs at the Baltimore Symphony, and a looming deficit after a couple of hard-won in-the-black years, provides another depressing reminder of how destructive this recession is for the arts. You can read more about the situation in my article in Friday's paper.
One thing that bears much repeating: This struggle at the BSO could not have been so calmly and carefully dealt with a few years ago under previous management. There's a level of cooperation and trust between orchestra and administration that hasn't been seen in that organization for quite a while. Morale can't be great over there now, especially among the musicians, but there's every indication that the BSO is holding together, artistically and institutionally. And that bodes well for the orchestra's future.
As always, feel free to share your thoughts and reactions here.
Comments
When I read about this 2nd give-back by the musicians, I was saddened and impressed at the same time. We're all hit hard by the current economy and the arts are usually an easy and early victim.
Due to this 2nd over-generous concession by the symphony players, I was moved to stretch my own budget and increase my previous donation to match their dedication to this fine orchestra. I can only hope others are in a position to do the same. And I hope they realize how much they and their contributions are appreciated by many of us in the audience in keeping the orchestra going and performing at such a high level despite their situation.
Thanks for commenting. The arts need more patrons as generous and sensitive as you. TIM
Posted by: flint350 | August 1, 2009 6:33 PM