Whatever Susan MacDougal is alleged to have stolen from Zubin Mehta, it
certainly wasn't his talent. If your going to risk the consequences for
theft you might as well take something of value. The tough-as-nails old
timers in the NY Philharmonic were not happy with Mehta, until he decided
to leave. The reason he stayed as long as he did is that he has a physique
among conductors closest to the Governor of Minnesota. And that seemed to
impress the ladies.
And a talent desert goes for Loren Maisel also. He is the only one who
ever began a Strauss waltz and everyone STOPPED dancing.
I'm sad that Masur is leaving. So many of the concerts I've attended have
been so satisfying.
Andy C.