In Wednesday’s (8/10) Philadelphia Inquirer, Peter Dobrin writes that, “the orchestra’s principal trumpeter, David Bilger, has accepted a two-year visiting professorship at the University of Georgia. He’ll continue as a member of the Philadelphia Orchestra, but is cutting back on his number of weeks. … Rather than paraphrase, I’ll let him tell the story himself. Here’s his letter to me (published with his permission): ‘I have indeed accepted the position as Visiting Professor of Music and William F. and Pamela P. Prokasy Professor in the Arts at the University of Georgia, beginning immediately. I will continue my important work at the Curtis Institute of Music, as well as my teaching at Temple University. I will also be fulfilling most of my obligations with the POA [Philadelphia Orchestra Association]. … The management of the POA, and the administration at UGA were extremely generous and flexible in allowing me to schedule my work in both cities. … It would be disingenuous of me not to admit to you that pursuing the position at UGA at this point in my career was a response to the current difficulties and uncertainties at the POA. In fact, it would have been irresponsible of me not to be looking for career opportunities elsewhere. Previously, I had always believed that I would retire from playing as a member of the Philadelphia Orchestra. But now, given the uncertain financial future of the orchestra, it is imperative to reassess my career options. … Suffice it to say that I am worried not only about the fiscal problems facing the orchestra, but also the artistic fallout. … I want to be clear that I want the best for the Philadelphia Orchestra.’ ”
Posted August 11, 2011
