Researchers theorize that Mozart may have died as a result of kidney damage caused by strep throat. After analyzing data from the death registry in Vienna, scientists have postulated that “edema,” the listed cause of Mozart’s death, may have come as a result of untreated strep throat. Edema is the wasting away that could have also been associated with diabetes or cancer, however the spike in edema related deaths during the year Mozart died leads researchers to believe there was an epidemic of strep throat during the cold season. Check the full article for more info.
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CNN Top Story: Mozart May Have Died From Strep Throat
Alec Baldwin to Narrate Philadelphia Orchestra at Saratoga
Tina Fey Unimpressed
The Philadelphia Orchestra will begin its summer residence at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center in Saratoga Springs, NY on August 5th at 8:00pm with a performance of Copland’s “Lincoln Portrait” narrated by Alec Baldwin. As if an appearance by a Baldwin wasn’t enough, check the link to see what else is on the program.
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NY Times: Bard Music Festival to Explore Wagner
New York Times Music recently detailed the philosophy behind a Wagner-oriented festival to be held at Bard College. The Bard Music Festival is an annual occurrence at Bard College, and this year they plan to delve into the “Wagner phenomenon.” The festival begins August 14th on the Bard College campus, and the full article can be found here.
Article of Interest: Pre-season Construction at the Met
Season Lineup Looks Promising
New York Times Music has a very detailed and interesting article about the off-season construction taking place at the Metropolitan Opera. Check out the article, or click the link for a quick list of some of the upcoming Met rep.
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Classical World Mourns Loss of Sir Edward Downes and Wife
Renowned conductor Sir Edward Downes passed away simultaneously with his wife at an assisted suicide clinic in Switzerland. Though the practice of euthanasia is heavily criticized in the UK, the media speculates no charges will be brought against the children who accompanied the Downes’ to the clinic. Although his passing has prompted discussion about euthanizing someone who was relatively healthy, I find it more important to simply recognize and honor the legacy of one of Britain’s most accomplished conductors. The telegraph has a very touching obituary I assure is worth the read.
Spokane Symphony Announces Budget Reduction
This Just In: Economy Still Sucks
The Spokane Symphony said in a press release Monday that they are taking steps to alleviate a 5% financial deficit predicted for the end of the year. Despite solid financial footing for the last 8 years, the organization began to feel the effects of recession halfway through the 08-09 season. Check the link for an outline of all budget adjustments.
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NY Times Sells WQXR; NY’s Classical Station to Exchange Places with Spanish Radio
Employees To Fill Out Applications for Own Jobs
The Deal
WQXR 96.3FM, New York’s long standing classical radio station, will be sold by the New York Times Company pending FCC approval. The rights to the WQXR name will be sold to WNYC Public Radio, and its 96.3 spot on the dial, including broadcasting equipment, will go to Univision. Univision plans to transition its Spanish-language programming to 96.3 from 105.9, which in turn is also being purchased by WNYC for use as WQXR’s new frequency. The sale comes during an economic slump that has taken its toll on an already struggling newspaper industry. Check the link for the good and bad news.
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NY Phil Begins “Concerts in the Parks” Next Week
The New York Philharmonic will perform its first “Concerts in the Parks” performance on Tuesday, July 14 in Central Park. The program for the first three performances is Mozart Symphony No. 41 “Jupiter,” and Beethoven Symphony No. 7. The fourth performance will feature Copland’s Old American Songs (Set 2), and Mahler Symphony No. 1 “Titan.” All performances are free and will be conducted by Alan Gilbert. The Copland songs will feature baritone Nathan Gunn. Check the link for the full schedule.
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