David Stabler has an extensive (by newspaper standards) article in this Sunday’s Oregonian (available today on newstands or online) on OSO music director Carlos Kalmar and his effect on the Oregon Symphony. I’m quoted extensively in the article, and I’m sure I’ll take a lot of grief for my “we’re the dog” bit of frippery. But I was quoted accurately. It’s a pretty balanced and sympathetic article. Well worth reading.
Here’s a video of an interview with Carlos from the article’s website:
3 replies on “kalmar & oso eight years on”
I’m disappointed in this article. The ‘issue’ of Carlos’ leadership style isn’t an issue as far as I’m concerned. His direct manner is well established, and the fact is that a big improvement in the level of playing was an equal effort by both Carlos AND the players, who were all ready for the change. The quality question isn’t even a question….we all want the orchestra to sound great. Who would argue that?
I think the far more interesting and relevant question has to do with Carlos’ vision for this orchestra in this community. Is this the kind of orchestra that this community wants? Are we serving the needs of our community in the ways that only an orchestra can? Community outreach, new music programming, education, etc….these were just touched on in the article. I think they are the key issues for us moving forward, not Carlos’ temperament.
And all the dogs said…..woof.
Great observation, as always, Ron. Since most of the talking heads in the arts biz are all yapping about relevance to the community these days, it’s a glaring omission in the article. The fact that we don’t reach the entire state through radio broadcasts, we no longer tour regionally to reach those underserved communities, and we don’t even go into the most underserved community of all, the Portland Public Schools (except with small ensembles). All of these (except PPS, which never happened) have gone by the wayside due to budgetary concerns, but they show little sign of ever coming back.
I completely agree with your thoughts, Charles.