How to make 400 good friends for your orchestra--Alsop's outreach to amateurs

[secondwind]

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/02/03/AR2010020303579.html?sub=AR
Marin Alsop and the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra have at least 400 more good friends this week thanks to a program Alsop initiated to invite "Rusty Musicians" to play with the orchestra for a night.  Several people I know took part and had a wonderful time, although I wouldn't call any of them "rusty"--they are all fine amateur musicians who have "day jobs" to support their music habit.   (I didn't apply--I thought I was 'too busy' when I first heard about the program ). As orchestras around the country are struggling to survive, I've got to give Alsop points for creativity.  That's what we in Washington call "rallying the base"! I hope it pays off for her and the BSO.

[bhodges]

Thanks for posting this story, which I hadn't heard about (and might not have).   As you say, have to give her points for creativity, for sure.   Will be interested to hear of any further effects from this experiment, and it sounds like it should be repeated. 

--Bruce

[jochanaan]

Excellent idea!  I'd be there in a heartbeat if it happened in Denver.