Issue: October 2024
Every ICSOM member is part of a vast system that begins in early childhood, runs through music school, influences our auditions, and generally spans our entire career. Before we even realize how ensnared we are by this system, most of us have dedicated nearly our entire lives to music. Given this perspective, it’s unsurprising that efforts to change this system have had limited impact on the … [Read more...]
Issue: Chairperson's Reports
Recent developments at the New York Philharmonic have highlighted the significant challenges survivors of sexual misconduct face in finding support within our industry. It is important to acknowledge that this is not a new issue; survivors have long struggled to navigate our complex system. The ICSOM Governing Board recognizes the need for a tangible resource to help survivors, bystanders, and … [Read more...]
Issue: April 2024
On behalf of the Governing Board, I am excited to report about our preparations for the 62nd annual ICSOM Conference, set to take place from August 21–24 in Portland, OR. The agenda boasts diverse presentations, covering crucial topics such as Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion; tackling issues like sexual harassment; and exploring strategies for internal organizing. In addition to these sessions, … [Read more...]
Issue: Chairperson's Reports
Growing up in a family where community service was a way of life, I witnessed firsthand the importance of giving back. Although not a teacher by trade, my father volunteered to teach classes during evenings and weekends, often assisting students with learning difficulties by helping them read through their tests and assignments. My mother volunteered her time to schools, focusing on teaching kids … [Read more...]
Issue: Chairperson's Reports
Much hangs in the balance with the outcome of the 2022 midterm election. Republicans, who appear poised to take control of the House as I write this column, have openly promised to stall Biden’s Democratic agenda until after the 2024 presidential election. They have also explicitly threatened to force a default on US Treasury debt unless they obtain cuts to programs like Social Security and … [Read more...]
Issue: Chairperson's Reports
As of this writing, almost half of the 24 negotiating ICSOM orchestras have settled. It is never easy to hammer out a settlement and this time around is no exception. Lingering COVID, low interest rates, and high inflation make for a difficult bargaining environment. The resulting settlements are mixed, but so far there are more good outcomes than bad. Even though many orchestras have cash … [Read more...]
Issue: April 2022
By Meredith Snow The 60th anniversary of ICSOM’s founding comes at an interesting inflection point in our history—as in “may you live in interesting times…” As the dust settles from the unforeseen and nearly catastrophic pandemic shutdown, we are returning to full concert schedules, attendance restrictions are lifting, and our audiences are coming back. We are nearly back to … [Read more...]
Issue: Chairperson's Reports
We are just a few months shy of two years since the March 2020 pandemic shutdown. The SARS-CoV-2 virus and its variants are still with us but our orchestras have shown remarkable agility and resilience in the face of what could have been an industry-wide catastrophe. The closures of our performance spaces were often mandated by state and county decree, but by mid-March of 2020, our orchestras … [Read more...]
Issue: Chairperson's Reports
As we dive into our season openings across the country, I am cautiously optimistic that we can look forward to a successful return. As of this writing, all but two of our ICSOM orchestras have secured contracts for the coming year. The protocols for mandatory vaccination and/or testing are in place. From what I see, our audiences are eager to come back. Barring further variants of the … [Read more...]
Issue: Chairperson's Reports
After 14 months of stasis and isolation, our orchestras are on the move. The quick nationwide rollout of vaccines by the Biden administration is creating the possibility of a near-normal summer season and the probability of a genuine opening and full return for our upcoming 21/22 season. In the aftermath of our pandemic year there is much to take stock of, and even more to do, as we navigate the … [Read more...]
