Are City Orchestras a Dying Breed?

[Heavy_Metal]

This appeared in "Mother Jones" of all places:

http://www.motherjones.com/media/2013/0 ... ta-lockout" target="_blank

Let the discussion begin.

[iiipopes]

Last week, my party band played a benefit for our regional symphony. About 450 attendance, much money raised, everyone had great food, great beverages, and if I may say so, great music from the contributing vendors. Our symphony is alive and well, well underwritten, management/musician relations are good, and community support, outreach and seasonal attendance are as good as it gets.

[tbn.al]

Tonight I get to hear some Tscaik and Rodrigo with the ASO. It will cost me (two) about $100 including enclosed parking (safety)and seats. I like it well enough to do four or five a year. So do a bunch of my fellow Atantans, as the hall is usually about 80 to 90% full. Still we have a huge annual deficit and an uncertain future. I don't know what the answer is but I sure hope they figure it out!

[Jonathan Fowler]

Have orchestras ever considered including a corporate name in order to gain some sponsorship $$? I know that is anathema to what many arts organizations stand for...but has it ever been seriously discussed?
I'm not trying to start an anti/pro corporation thing, just wondering out loud.

Jon

[eupher61]

not like a stadium, but many have a sponsor for classical series, pops, whatever other category.

[Jess Haney]

Have orchestras ever considered including a corporate name in order to gain some sponsorship $$? I know that is anathema to what many arts organizations stand for...but has it ever been seriously discussed?
I'm not trying to start an anti/pro corporation thing, just wondering out loud.

Jon

I think this should be an avenue that all large musical groups should look at. In England brass bands are often sponsered by local community organizations in order to function with equipment and music costs. It also allows them to have paid musicians and cut down on ticket prices. But British Brass bands also compete for various championships both nationally and internationally.