Some months ago I attended a series of meetings hosted by the Mellon Foundation and The League of American Orchestras. The meetings were focused on how professional American orchestras might get more musicians from 'underrepresented communities' into their ensembles. For the purposes of the gathering at least, Black and Latino musicians were a primary focus. Going into the … [Read more...]

When you think about it, the majority of my practice as an orchestral musician is witnessed. My performance practice (concerts) happen in public. Sometimes my rehearsal practice - as part of the ensemble - is open to the public. Even when its not, it’s always witnessed by my colleagues. Even most of my solo practice is witnessed - by my family. Before that, by my roommates. … [Read more...]