In Thursday’s (3/17) Cincinnati Enquirer, Janelle Gelfand writes, “The Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra reports that its ‘Classical Roots: Lift Ev’ry Voice’ concert last Friday was a sellout, the third sold-out or nearly sold-out concert in the 3,419-seat Music Hall since January. And a fourth special concert on May 3 has been sold out for months. … This year, average attendance at CSO concerts is up 5 percent compared to last year, and Pops attendance in Music Hall has soared 16 percent. Trey Devey, CSO president, said the orchestra is also encouraged about subscription sales for next season. … Nationally, orchestra attendance is generally flat, and most orchestras are still dealing with the impact of the recession. But Jesse Rosen, president and CEO of the League of American Orchestras, said he is beginning to hear reports of rebound. ‘There are some who are definitely struggling, some who are flat and there are some who are bouncing back,’ Rosen said. … ‘Hats off to the Cincinnati Symphony. It’s an accomplishment to grow your audience under any circumstances. I’m sure there’s some combination of good leadership there, good programming and the interest in the artistic leadership transition.’ ” This is Paavo Järvi’s last season as music director of the orchestra.
Posted March 18, 2011
