How the Cleveland Orchestra Stays at the Top of Classical Music
The New York Times • • entertainment
Key Points:
- The Cleveland Orchestra maintains its reputation as one of America's finest ensembles through its sophistication, rigor, and emotional reserve, despite not having the largest budget.
- Music director Franz Welser-Möst, who has led the orchestra for over 23 years, fosters an intuitive and trusting relationship with the musicians, allowing for efficient and careful preparation.
- The orchestra's programming reflects bold contrasts, exemplified by a recent program featuring Mozart’s “Jupiter” Symphony alongside Shostakovich’s politically charged Symphony No. 11.
- The orchestra's openness is demonstrated by allowing a critic to observe rehearsals from start to finish, highlighting confidence in their process while maintaining focus by restricting onstage access.
- Pride and meticulous care characterize the orchestra
