Posted by Jay Bertolet on May 10, 2003 at 09:27:47:
Hello all.
I'm posting the following newspaper article so that you all will know what is going on here in South Florida. If any of you have any questions, feel free to email me.
Florida Philharmonic fires 80 musicians, suspends operations
By Lawrence A. Johnson
Classical Music Writer
Sun-Sentinel
May 9, 2003, 4:35 PM EDT
The cash-strapped Florida Philharmonic Orchestra announced Friday that it is firing all 80 musicians and will suspend operations as of Saturday.
Friday afternoon's announcement came just minutes after the conclusion of the Philharmonic's final concert, a pops program performed at Spanish River Church in Boca Raton.
Less than three weeks ago, the Philharmonic's board chairman, Daniel Lewis, said the 17-year-old Philharmonic was in a life-or-death financial crisis. With a steep dropoff in fund-raising and posting a $2.9 million deficit for this season, Lewis said a quick cash infusion was needed to avoid bankruptcy.
Last week, the board of trustees authorized management to begin bankruptcy proceedings while extending the deadline till May 10. Executive director Trey Devey told the Sun-Sentinel last Wednesday that "there was no significant progress" on raising the $4 million he said was needed to keep in operation.
A statement released by the Philharmonic said eight Philharmonic ticketed performances between May 10 and 24 have been canceled. It also said final determination of reimbursement of orchestra season ticket subscribers and advanced individual ticket purchases will be announced at a later time. Ticket holders interested in receiving a
charitable tax credit should send a letter to: Florida Philharmonic Orchestra, 3401 NW Ninth Ave., Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309 and request a tax credit.