Diversifying the Symphony

I couldn’t agree more with Aaron Flagg regarding:

1) processes in place currently being imperfect

2) current pool being only what it can be, as only a certain pool does actually audition

3) context of diversity initiatives that have existed and the unfortunate fate of CBMR’s effort to put together a database of minority musicians

How do we go about changing any of this in a fashion that yields actual results?

Despite some of the best intentions on behalf of orchestras, many of whom recognize the need for change, facts suggest that diversity statistics have remained stagnant for decades and for the most part, our processes have been preserved. Many music schools also recognize their role in the pipeline. Although many are working to diversify their student body, much more work needs to still be done in the area of how we actually prepare our teaching artists, soloists, orchestra musicians, and what they know and understand of the real world by the time they graduate.

I think most of us might agree that true CHANGE really is necessary at this time. The only aspect I’d love to reinforce is that this change will not come about from one entity, be it orchestras, schools or our individual communities. Each of us has a responsibility, and very direct one: we all think, assess, debate, — we all care about this issue. If each one of us consciously processes the importance of our own individual and collective roles, together, we may be able to necessitate change.

It is my hope that our efforts will not end with this discussion, but rather, potentially inspire a new energy to do more! Thank you to all of the panelists and to Ann for putting the discussion together.