Submitted by John Jeter, Dec 12, 2006 22:35

Kate Taylor's article on the possible dearth of excellent orchestra conductors is yet another article that misses the mark . There are plenty of excellent conductors of very high standard in America today. The problem is that the orchestra industry doesn't have the "star system" anymore of the recording artist. Up until 10 years ago, the major conductors were the ones that had the recording contracts. With these contracts gone, search committees are at a loss to come up with a short list of "famous" conductors. The playing field is more level than ever and it drives the industry crazy. The overall level of conductors has improved in the last 30 years so the supposed "stars" that orchestras are looking for are harder to find. Anyone with promise is immediately thrown center stage and the industry quickly tires of them. The orchestra business is the most "grass is always greener" world imaginable, almost as bad as Hollywood where what is important is the next new thing. Another important point to remember is that virtually all of the "great" conductors were not so great in their early years but back in the good old days, one could learn the craft in isolation, not so today. In addition, the non-musical aspects of the music director's job are not at odds with their artistic responsibilities, this is simply untrue. The entire industry needs to get a clue or else no-one will be attending concerts anymore and finally, quit focusing on youth, conductors need time to develop, help the ones who have had real success instead of the next flamboyant 25 year old.

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