Klarinet Archive - Posting 000139.txt from 1998/01

From: Hat NYC 62 <HatNYC62@-----.com>
Subj: Wiener Philharmoniker
Date: Tue, 6 Jan 1998 08:17:04 -0500

A short addnedum to this discussion:

The Vienna Philharmonic is NOT a full time orchestra. It is a 'gig.' They play
very few concerts. The Philharmonic is comprised of selected members of the
Vienna State Opera Orchestra, which IS a full-time and high paying job. It is,
obviously by name, a government job as well.

The Vienna does not merely discriminate against women. Non-central Europeans
are also barred. Many Asian musicians study at the music conservatory in
Vienna, but none may join or audition for the Opera (and thus the Philharmonic
as well).

This 'musical inbreeding' has been credited by some in the orchestra as
necessary for maintaining the special Viennese sound. Of course, the fact that
there are also some sections of the orchestra that are somewhat weaker than
other top world orchestras is also a result of this. No new blood. . .all new
members are students of the old members.

Another aside. . .the Czech Philharmonic has never had a woman either.