In Sunday’s (12/16) Milford Daily News (Massachusetts), Paul Angiolillo writes, “In 2010, the 47-year-old Newton Symphony Orchestra went silent. ‘You have to compete with so many other forms of entertainment today,’ said Letitia Stevens, the former executive director of the now-shuttered NSO. She’s the manager of marketing and administration at Boston Baroque. It is a challenge faced by regional orchestras in cities and towns throughout eastern Massachusetts… In fact, it’s impressive how many purveyors of live classical music are still putting on high-quality concerts, as well as reaching out into communities with classes and talks, competitions and other musical programs. … Newtown has another classical music group, though, the New Philharmonia Orchestra. The ‘New Phil’ not only performs concerts but also runs a host of outreach programs, including free family-oriented concerts, music appreciation classes for both children and seniors, discounters for subscribers at local restaurants, and a ‘petting zoo,’ where children learn about and handle musical instruments. Oversaturation is another challenge for orchestras, especially those closer to Boston, with its many musical offerings both professional and nonprofessional. ‘There are just so many ticket buyers, donors and corporate sponsors,’ said Susan Randazzo, executive director of Indian Hill Music, based in Littleton. Like many other directors of classical music groups, Randazzo is active in the League of American Orchestras, which offers support for and advice on sustaining live classical music in the 21st century.” Other music groups discussed in the article include the Metrowest Symphony Orchestra and Claflin Hill Music.”
Posted December 19, 2012
