Programming Pandemonium – The process

The down and dirty of artistic programming

While continuing to research the programming processes of a variety of symphonies and chamber orchestras, I am also embarking on my own solo project – a violin recital in July!  It will at the University of Oregon in Eugene, on July 17, 2010.

Documenting the preparation and event; from program conception to performance, I will highlight artistic and logistical administrative currents in programming and musical preparation.

The investigation of best practices in symphony administration underscores my close observance to the entire process.

#1  Figure out Program

I decided on the theme of dance music as a foundation to the program, then I did a bit of research to narrow down the vast repertoire possibilities.

Building the program was fun and allowed me to  decide what to play based on what would fit in the dance theme and what resonated with me.

Themed programs are effective in many circumstances.  They provide a basis for advertising as well as a thread to link the music together.  In this way, thoughtful programming can be a guided tour for the astute listener.

The Louisiana Philharmonic demonstrates the effective use of themed programs in their 2009-2010 season:

• Something Old; featuring works by Handel, CPE. Bach, Haydn, and Schumann
• Early Explorers; Bernstein: Overture to Candide, Rimsky-Korsakov: The Flight of the Bumblebee, Brahms: Hungarian Dance No. 5, Strauss: Treasure Waltz and Persian March, Holst: Mars, from The Planets
• Made in Louisiana; explores the state’s role on both national and international concert stages and features selections from Rossini’s Barber of Seville and works by Louisiana natives Edmond Dédé, Ernest Guiraud, Louis Moreau Gottschalk, and Genevieve Pitot

The Oregon Symphony also chooses clever and catchy programs:

• Music From the Movies, in the Pops Series was a program in November 2009 of great movie music, including a choral suite from Home Alone and music from Spiderman, Pirates of the Caribbean and Harry Potter.
• March 14, 2010 saw the performance of Strauss’ Theatre Music featuring Delius: Iremelin Prelude, Vaughan Williams: Symphony No. 6, Richard Strauss: Incidental music to Le Bourgeois Gentilhomme

The next task for me in this regard is to name my program.  Putting on my marketing hat… now.

#2 Secure Venue

Check.  The recital will be held at the University of Oregon Library.  Details forthcoming.

#3 Practice, Practice, Practice.

The artistic process is ever present.  The ongoing quest for improvement is clearly manifested in music as the metronome increases its tempo one notch at a time.

Arts administrators rarely get the opportunity to exercise their artistic capabilities.  I am taking this time to explore my musical voice as well as my programming and administrative prowess.

Updates on my progress and process to come.

Find more like this: Artistic Administration