Two articles highlighted by Arts Journal illuminate Sir Simon Rattle’s precarious position in Berlin. In a matter of days the Berlin Philharmonic players will vote on whether to retain Rattle. The most recent article place the blame on Rattle’s programming, which some believe is too experimental.
Rattle’s future with the orchestra looks bleak if the following is to be believed:
Rattle’s critics believe his programme has become too experimental and the orchestra, once known for its Brahms, has lost its talent for such work. A source at the BPO said a third of the orchestra were unconvinced by him, another third were said to be “floating voters”, and only a third were devoted to his methods.
However, Berlin’s hasty decision might be a blessing in disguise as both Philadelphia and Chicago are looking for new music directors. Rattle may fit better with Chicago than Philadelphia. Sir Simon knows how to conduct all of the staples Chicagoans love but would bring just enough of the new to raise interest in the CSO without turning off long-time subscribers and benefactors.
Zach Carstensen
oznitorres
James Bash
sultanascheherezade
Philippa Kiraly