Wednesday (1/26) on Norwalk Patch (Connecticut), Nancy Burton writes, “The Norwalk Symphony Orchestra, which last week announced cancellation of its remaining spring season due to shrinking donations, seems primed to reinstate at least one concert in May and may make changes to keep the organization sustainable over the long term. No one at the 71-year-old Symphony welcomed last week’s news, but its music director, for one, says she perceives a silver lining. ‘It’s a really positive thing in our growth process,’ said Diane Wittry, the orchestra’s musical director and conductor for the past seven years. ‘It’s requiring us to go through a restructuring.’ … Wittry, who lives in South Orange, NJ, speaks from experience. She also conducts the Allentown Symphony Orchestra, in Pennsylvania, which went through a similar financial roller coaster two years ago and has emerged the stronger for it, she said. … Wittry expressed regret that the orchestra had had to cancel a Scottish-themed concert with violinist Stephan Jackiw, as well as a Rachmaninoff performance on May 14 with guest artist pianist Joyce Yang. … Wittry is hopeful the orchestra will be able to substitute a smaller orchestra with a different program featuring classical guitarist Jorge Caballero. … The symphony’s board will meet Jan. 31 to discuss the possible May 14 concert as well as fundraising plans.”
Posted January 26, 2011
