On Sept. 10, Bright Sheng, the Leonard Bernstein Distinguished University Professor of Composition at the University of Michigan’s School of Music, Theater & Dance (SMTD) convened the first meeting of his undergraduate composition … » Read

An onstage extra was killed on Saturday at the Bolshoi Theater, reportedly crushed by a piece of scenery. Media reports say the 37-year-old exited in the wrong direction during a scene change and a backdrop descended on him. The performance of … » Read

The Houston Symphony has reached its first ever five-year contract between management and the American Federation of Musicians, Local 65-699. Taking effect on October1, the new agreement extends through October 31, 2026. Three key elements in the … » Read

LONDON (AP) — Paul McCartney has revisited the breakup of The Beatles, flatly disputing the suggestion that he was responsible for the group’s demise. Speaking on an episode of BBC Radio 4’s This Cultural Life that is scheduled … » Read

Another labor vs. arts management cliff-hanger has been resolved. Much as the Met Opera and its orchestra musicians reached accord within weeks of opening night, Kennedy Center and its stagehands have come to a meeting of the minds just four days … » Read

October 11 update : Please note that the labor issues at Kennedy Center have been resolved since this article appeared. See KenCen Stagehands Reach Accord. It is, unfortunately, no surprise to hear that the local union board of the International … » Read

The League of American Orchestras conducted a survey in late August/early September to determine vaccination, masking, and distancing policies among U.S. orchestra musicians, staff, and audiences. A total of 202 of the League’s 700 member … » Read

Debby King, a Carnegie Hall stalwart for 34 years, died at age 71 on Sept. 20. Dubbed the “soul” of the venerable performance hall by cellist Yo-Yo Ma, King functioned as a personal assistant who had a new boss every night. She was … » Read

In a capacity similar to those in which she has served the Lyric Opera of Chicago, the Kennedy Center, Carnegie Hall Song Studio, Aspen Music Festival and School, and others, Renée Fleming has been named Advisor for Special Projects for … » Read

The Curtis Institute of Music has received what it describes as a “transformational” gift of $20 million from an anonymous donor to "further the school's bold strategic direction as it approaches its centenary in 2024." It is one of … » Read