A few notes on the CSO
As a former Denver resident looking back in, it seems to me a couple of things have been overlooked in the Boettcher Hall debate (“Decision on bond projects delayed,” June 16).
First, the Colorado Symphony Orchestra seems to think that gutting the hall and rebuilding will somehow improve the acoustics and therefore the sound of the orchestra.
Maybe. But the orchestra has done nothing to enlarge itself and further improve its overall performance standard. The orchestra is at least 15 players below strength.
No hall, no matter how fine, can change this. An underpowered ensemble in a poor hall is underpowered in a fine hall.
Second, many orchestras of greater renown have built their reputations in and are still playing in halls that leave something to be desired. Rochester, Buffalo, Chicago, Cincinnati and Washington orchestras come to mind right off.
Third, it’s easier to have a bond issue to pay for improvements. I wonder what would happen if the CSO would raise funds and spend its money to improve itself by hiring more musicians to increase its standard and grow?
Mark McCue, La Junta