Latest econo-casualty: NE String Ensemble dates

The New England String Ensemble has canceled its Feb. 7-8 concert program in North Andover and at Jordan Hall to allow for an administrative reorganization and a "painful" but neccessary evaluation of the "current financial environment." The announcement took pains to emphasize, however, that new board members are "committed to building a strong, more resilient organization" and that performances will resume in April. Mozart and Golijov were to be featured in the canceled performances. Full press release after the jump. Ticketholders should click here.

NEW ENGLAND STRING ENSEMBLE ALTERS ANNUAL
CONCERT SERIES FOR MAJOR ADMINISTRATIVE RESTRUCTURING

Wakefield, MA—The New England String Ensemble board reached a decision to undertake a major administrative reorganization that will necessitate the canceling of one of its four subscription concerts in the 2008-2009 season. Citing the challenging economic environment and the presence of new Board members who are committed to building a strong, more resilient organization, the Board decided to utilize the next four months until their April 3 Ballets Russes concert for reorganization. It was felt that a realistic appraisal of the current financial environment, while painful, was the best way to move forward toward solidifying the base of the area non-profit.

The unfortunate fallout of this decision is the cancellation of the February 7-8, 2009 concert program. Refunds and other options will be available to ticket holders. Click here for options offered to ticket holders.

D. Roger Howlett, president of the board, said, "We look forward to both a better economic climate in the relatively near future and the benefits that we expect will result from this plan. Our new board members, together with those that have been with us from previous seasons, are taking the necessary actions to strengthen New England String Ensemble as we plan for our spring reappearance."

Despite the brief hiatus in its performance series, the New England String Ensemble will continue to serve the community through its educational initiatives. In fact, the organization recently received a $25,000 grant from a private foundation to support the Sharon Gewirtz Kids to Concert endowment fund. NESE’s annual string competition is also taking place. The final round will take place in March 2009 and be judged by NESE musicians.

Comments

[Busby SEO Test Gary Viray]

This is sad to hear. Perhaps performers and artists should explore collaborating or doing joint performances to maximize possible resources / support they can get from events like this.