In recent postings on multiple threads, I have hit symphony orchestras hard
for their lack of exercising good business practices.  In re-reading those
postings, I was very "harsh."

I would like to soften my view some.  I realize that it's very hard to mix
artistic pursuits with business concerns, and there's always a tendency for
artists to shy away from business matters and for business folks to think
that if artists have their way, the whole structure will crumble.

One area that must be particularly difficult is the concert programming
function.  It would appear reasonable that the music director would
determine the programming.  On the other hand, programming greatly impacts
the "business", and on that basis, should be determined by marketing
specialists.  What's best? It's hard to say.  Both sides need to have input
and reach some mutually agreeable decisions.  Perhaps the key here is for
each group to keep in mind that it needs the other - only when they are in
harmony will processes go smoothly and results be positively maximized.

Don Satz
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