Radio station WQXR reported some troubling news about the Brooklyn Philharmonic on Friday, adding to the woes of this professional ensemble that has been part of Brooklyn's musical life for decades.
According to the Brian Wise's report, music director Alan Pierson's contract expired in June and has not been renewed. A spokesperson for the orchestra told the Brooklyn Public Library that the orchestra will not be renewing its annual series of concerts there this season.
And, in perhaps the most troubling sign, the orchestra's staff has departed.
An orchestra source told WQXR that, due to a decline in donations, the orchestra is experiencing severe financial problems.
This is unfortunate news for an institution that's had its share of financial and legal troubles. The orchestra flourished in the 1980s and '90s, but has experienced a decline in donations in recent years. In 2009, a lack of money forced the orchestra to cancel its entire season.
However, there have been some notable successes lately, including two sold-out performances last June with R&B singer Eryka Badu.
Classicalite has previously reported on the lawsuit against the orchestra, brought by composer Nathan Currier. The composer alleges that the Brooklyn Philharmonic broke contract by abruptly stopping the 2004 premiere of his oratorio in mid-performance at Lincoln Center's Avery Fisher Hall. Orchestra management maintain they were merely trying to prevent the union ensemble from slipping into overtime, thus incurring additional fees.
Currier's oratorio, Gaian Variations, is scored for full orchestra, string quartet, chorus and vocal soloists.
Mr. Currier is seeking compensatory damages of $72,000, which is the amount he spent to secure a premiere of Gaian Variations with the Brooklyn Philharmonic.
The Philharmonic sought to dismiss the lawsuit, but Justice David Schmidt of the Supreme Court of Kings County denied their attempt earlier this year. Harvey Mars, the Philharmonic's lawyer, told WQXR that the ruling will be appealed.
If the Philharmonic loses said appeal, the case of Currier v Brooklyn Philharmonic is expected to go to trial sometime next year.
