Gerard Gibbs wrote:

>Since it is still quite standard among unionized orchestras-ICSOM and
>AF of M-that a "service" is 2 and one half hours, that defeats this
>theory.  If concert time is 8:00 p.m., theoretically the concert can
>last until 10:30 p.m.  until overtime is called.  In the case of large
>scale choral, ballet or operatic works, an exception is usually made
>whereas the performance can go up to 3 hours.

The above reminds me of several occasions in Symphony Hall, Boston where
the conductor has taken the hand of the concert master and walked off
stage moments after the conclusion of the music.

Looking at my watch it was perilously close to 10:30PM.

Regards,

Tom Connor