It seems that those who call for the end of classical music, or at the very least are saying that it is too elitist are actually being elitist themselves. They are calling orginizations with very poorly paid musicians unnecessary, when millions is spent on sports which are equally or less important culturally. Perfection does not exist, and in music quality is in the ear of the listener.

In Mr. Teachout’s article for the Wall Street Journal he states that why pay to listen to a mediocre performance of an old warhorse when you can get a copy of the piece on iTunes for next to nothing. Somehow he feels that the live experience is of no value; strange seeing as he is a theatre advocate. As a musician and parent I have been to many performances of school ensembles when things have been less than perfect. That doesn’t mean that I was not moved by what I heard or profoundly touched by the enthusiasm of the performers.

Please do read the whole thing!