Author: clarinetguy ★2017
Date: 2010-09-04 22:27
“That 20-year-old really doesn’t want to listen to symphonic-type music,” Colonel Palmatier said.
This is probably true, but it's is hardly a new idea. During World War II, Glen Miller created his Army Air Force Band to perform music designed to appeal to the 20 year-olds of his time.
Many of you mentioned shrinking audiences. Very true. However, I've attended free summer symphony orchestra concerts, and the crowds are huge.
There are people of every age group. Perhaps it's the lighter music, perhaps it's the free cost, or perhaps it's because everything is family-friendly. Of course a symphony orchestra cannot survive playing nothing but free summer outdoor concerts, but the crowds do seem to be very enthusiastic.
I wrote about this a while back, and I'll say it again. Part of the reason for shrinking audiences is the music performed. Yes, I appreciate the great classics, and many others do as well. A large number of those who aren't turned on to classical music really enjoy selections like Rhapsody in Blue, American in Paris, Fanfare for the Common Man, 1812 Overture, the New World Symphony, the William Tell Overture, the Pomp and Circumstance Marches, etc. Who is writing this kind of music today? To put it another way, which composers today are writing great music that the masses really enjoy? Many people have the perception that all the really great music has already been written. That's the real problem.
I received my September issue of the Instrumentalist magazine yesterday, and there's an article titled, "The Writings of Harry Begian." Begian was quite concerned about shrinking audiences for university band concerts, although he didn't think university orchestras had the same problem. He observed (and I think he was correct), "While many reasons are advanced for the causes [of shrinking attendance at band concerts], one never hears or reads that perhaps the main reason for the decline is poor programming. Far too many band conductors have forgotten, or consciously dismissed, a proper balance of musical responsibilities to both audiences and players . . . "
David wrote, "The university music schools have no conception of supply and demand - they only want your money..........."
David, I think you're right. It's a real shame. I'm glad to hear that Gilad is requiring his undergrads to double major.
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