America’s Orchestras Are in Crisis, Essay Example

After reading “America’s Orchestras Are in Crisis”, I was somewhat surprised. The other articles I have read this semester made it seem that orchestras were a popular enough form of entertainment that would be continuously supported by its fans. However, Phillip Kennicott’s article clearly contrasts this viewpoint, utilizing the failure of the Schermerhorn Symphony Center as an example. Unfortunately, this is not a unique problem, as orchestras have been failing all over the country. It had seemed like there would always be a place for live symphonic music. Although modern technology has made it such that music can be accessed using a variety of means, digitally recorded music is still not a replacement for live music. As a consequence, it appeared that this industry was safe from modern times. This problem has ultimately stemmed from a combination of technology and a depressed economic climate.

I believe that the concept of the “totalitarian” concert experience exists. Listening to classical music being played live, rather than on the Internet is a unique experience because it allows one to absorb themselves in the history of a culture that has since passed. An individual is more likely to pass judgment on a piece music immediately and without much rationalization if the source of media they are listening to is digital. Since no one put in a large degree of effort to ensure that the music was projected towards the listener, it’s easier to dismiss it and listen to something else after a few minutes. However, the beauty of orchestral music is that it is typically long and consists of many movements. Therefore, to feel the full impact of the music, one must immerse themselves in a live music scene to be able to enjoy fuller sound, complete movements, and the emotions of the individuals surrounding them. Instant gratification is not what makes classical music so great, it is the experience with which it is accompanied as well.

In the 21^st century, it is important for the orchestra to play an adhesive role in the community. However, it is necessary to consider that this may mean reaching out to a greater amount of individuals, thereby reversing the previous orchestral tradition. Ultimately, to bring a community together, orchestral music must be accessible. Since only the middle and upper classes can typically afford tickets to these performances, it is necessary for orchestras to do away with their expensive venues and play in areas in which greater amounts of people could enjoy the music. For example, park performances are low cost and would attract a greater number of listeners. While tradition is an important aspect of orchestral music, the traditions need to be modified to accommodate a changing world. Since it is easy to access digital music, to remain competitive, orchestras must ensure that they become accessible as well. The lessened ability to maintain orchestral halls is not at all a reflection of changing interests in this genre music, but it is an indicator of economic times. There is no longer the same degree of financial support for live music, so adjusting to these times will protect the integrity of this music, allowing it to be heard for many years to come. Furthermore, doing so will renew the interest of youth in performance, so that humanity continues to remain interested in the arts and in making music.