Area musicians call on BSO to diversify programming

A group of more than 60 area musicians is urging the Boston Symphony Orchestra to expand its programming beyond a white male canon to feature more works by female composers and people of color.

In an open letter, the group pointed out that though the symphony touts its diverse programming, the 2017-18 season “showcases neither diversity nor innovation.” Of the 73 pieces scheduled to be performed at Symphony Hall, only one is by a woman, the group noted.

“The remaining 72 pieces are all written by white men,” wrote the signatories, including performers in local ensembles and academics from Boston-area institutions including Harvard University and Berklee College of Music. The BSO “should demonstrate a commitment to equity by showcasing musical talent that is too often marginalized.”

https://www.bostonglobe.com/arts/music/2017/12/19/area-musicians-call-bso-diversify-programming/31w7OhQL7wE2ApSsC6UbIM/story.html

https://www.bostonglobe.com/opinion/letters/2017/12/26/moving-beyond-white-male-canon-couldn-bso-ahem-creative/3zJEKu5ZjEGcsIZYQMWYTK/story.html