Don says:

>My point was simply that our society pays little attention and gives
>little support to the world of Art, and I make no value judgement
>concerning the situation.

Well, you are certainly correct in your conclusion that U.S. society in
general does not "appreciate" the world of art.  But I wonder, really,
if the U.S. populace is any different than Europe in this regard.  Having
spent considerable time in Europe, I'm not sure that I see much in the way
of any difference in the fervor expressed towards art by its citizenry.
Yes, there appears to be more orchestras, etc., in Europe than there are
in U.S.  cities, but in the U.S. there are other indigenous art forms that
vie for the same audiences.  For instance, it can be argued that Jazz and
Blues, American in origin, are firmly placed in the world of art.  (of
course, it might also be noted that jazz has a pretty healthy following in
Europe, as well).  Certainly museums are packed in the U.S., as they are
in Europe, with many shows demanding advance purchase tickets.  Most U.S.
cities have a devoted art following, and this includes Art Music.  The U.S.
may lead the world in the production of silly and trivial products such as
Reality Television but that is no reason to conclude that its support for
art is any more lacking than anywhere else.  Not necessarily good news, but
perhaps the American cultural boat is sinking at the some rate as everybody
else.

"Linda Phillips" <[log in to unmask]>