Symphony says Cobb high school choirs not performing to give other schools a chance
Several upset Cobb parents alerted me to this story, but their version of why the Lassiter and Walton high schools choirs are not performing with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra this year differs dramatically from that of the orchestra leadership.
The orchestra contends it has nothing to do with the lack of racial diversity of the two choirs, but reflects the need to give other choirs a chance to perform with the ASO.
To be fair to the symphony, I have seen several holiday shows over the years, all with different local choirs. I am uncertain why there would be any expectation that once invited, a choir would be back every year.
For the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, it never rains but it pours.
On top of money troubles and bitter ongoing contract negotiations, the ASO has provoked a nasty public backlash when it was reported that the orchestra disinvited choruses from Lassiter and Walton high schools from the ASO’s holiday programs because the choirs weren’t “diverse enough.”
Websites lit up with negative responses.
“The ASO has just lost my business,” posted Linda McMichael, mother of a Cobb County high schooler. “They should be sued for racism.”
Earlier this week, Stanley Romanstein, president and CEO of the ASO, told Channel 2 Action News, “We want the stages of the Atlanta Symphony, whether here, Verizon, or Chastain, to reflect the diversity of Atlanta.”
But contacted Friday afternoon, Romanstein said he was referring to the eclectic programming offered by the ASO. The symphony has previously performed with the like of ZZ Topp and Dolly Parton.
“My comment was taken out of context,” said Romanstein, “and I’m not very happy about that.”
To the rescue Friday came the ASO Players Association, making an offer to stage free concerts at Lassiter and Walton. “The musicians have felt kind of helpless through this whole thing, trying to repair the relationships with the community,” said players representative and ASO principal trombonist Colin Williams. “The only way we know how is by performing.”
Jay Dillon, spokesman for Cobb County schools, said he didn’t know whether the schools were aware of the offer. “I will forward it to them as it seems like a reasonable remedy,” he said.
Romanstein said the controversy developed through a “misunderstanding.” Four years ago, he said, the ASO invited the choirs at Lassiter and Walton to participate in the symphony’s yearly holiday performances, which include Christmas carols, Hanukkah songs and appearances by Santa Claus. The ASO has a long tradition of performing with amateur groups, including the Atlanta Boy Choir and glee clubs at Spelman and Morehouse colleges.
At the end of the 2010 season, the schools were told the ASO could collaborate with Grady High School in 2012.
“We wanted to make sure other people had a chance,” said Romanstein. “The directors were cordial and understanding and thanked us for the opportunity to sing with the ASO. … How this got twisted on Monday into a racial battle … is really alarming.”
–From Maureen Downey, for the AJC Get Schooled blog
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126 comments Add your comment
Bernie
August 17th, 2012
10:01 pm
I know why! , They are the children of the LUCKY GENE POOL CLUB!
IvyParent
August 17th, 2012
10:13 pm
Whatever that is supposed to mean…
jsmtih
August 17th, 2012
10:31 pm
i applaud the ASO for wanting a more diverse choir, i was just telling a friend the other day that the chorus that sings in the holiday program with the ASO ….. ” IS NOT AS DIVERSE AS I THINK IT SHOULD BE” ?????
This is Mrs. Norman Maine
August 17th, 2012
11:39 pm
Wow, I can’t believe Linda McMichael let herself go on record making such a stupid statement. Why should Lassiter and Walton have a monopoly on performing annually? It’s not owed to them, talk about feeling entitled…
William Casey
August 17th, 2012
11:46 pm
I’ve been gone from the Cobb County School System since 1980 but one thing hasn’t changed: The “East Cobb Entitlement Syndrome.” LOL
NoahVale
August 18th, 2012
12:21 am
An article on this story from the East Cobbler quoted Jay Dillon, “the schools were informed by Symphony officials that their choruses are not diverse enough, and that the Symphony would be inviting a third, more diverse chorus.” – Is ASO’s Romanstein back-pedaling in the AJC article by stating, “geographical diversity?”
Also, from the East Cobber article:
“Meanwhile, we also asked about the racial diversity of the ASO itself.
A 2008 study by the League of American Orchestras found that 87% of musicians in U.S. symphonies are white.
But Melissa A.E. Sanders, the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra’s senior director of communications, wrote, ‘It is against our policy to share the race and/or ethnicity of our musicians, so I am unable to share that information.’”
Still, a class act by the ASO PA for offering to play free concerts at Walton and Lassiter.
Full East Cobber story – http://www.eastcobber.com/atlanta-symphony-thinks-two-cobb-high-school-choruses-not-diverse-enough/?utm_source=ENEWS+Aug+17+2012&utm_campaign=enews-august+17&utm_medium=email
FormerLHSChorusMember
August 18th, 2012
12:29 am
The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra did not need to justify their decision by stating that Lassiter and Walton were not diverse enough. Diversity should not have been a factor in their decision AT ALL and shame on them for making it one of their deciding factors. That being said, there is nothing wrong with the ASO opening up the fantastic opportunity to other local choral programs. Lassiter and Walton have been fortunate for 4 years to perform with the ASO. HOWEVER, all the ASO needed to say was that they were opening up the opportunity to other programs, since LHS and WHS have had their moment in the spotlight.
Noble Square Nupe
August 18th, 2012
12:30 am
I sang in choirs at Walton from 98-01. And i’m black. I’m not going to lie. There were a few songs that we as a choir would sing and i would think “this just doesn’t sound right”. No offense, and not trying to sound racist, but there are some songs that were meant to be sung by a particular group of people. Why couldnt ASO just expand the program to include more choirs? And lets not forget, Walton and Lassiter are recognized INTERNATIONALY for chorus, band, and orchestra.
Eddie
August 18th, 2012
2:37 am
So, the ASO is going broke and this is the way they encourage community support? I wonder if their new motto should be – Performance does not a matter as long as we look like the United Nations.
NoahVale
August 18th, 2012
3:22 am
An article on this story from the East Cobber quoted Jay Dillon, “the schools were informed by Symphony officials that their choruses are not diverse enough, and that the Symphony would be inviting a third, more diverse chorus.” – Is ASO’s Romanstein back-pedaling in the AJC article by stating, “geographical diversity?”
Also, from the East Cobber article:
“Meanwhile, we also asked about the racial diversity of the ASO itself.
A 2008 study by the League of American Orchestras found that 87% of musicians in U.S. symphonies are white.
But Melissa A.E. Sanders, the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra’s senior director of communications, wrote, ‘It is against our policy to share the race and/or ethnicity of our musicians, so I am unable to share that information.’”
Still, a class act by the ASO PA for offering to play free concerts at Walton and Lassiter.
jr
August 18th, 2012
3:51 am
oh give me a break you can call it what you want but its still discrimination.. When you tell and almost all white school they are not diverse enough but then you bring in a black school.. People can read between the lines.. Oh and let them tell that to Grady.. NAACP would be eating them alive….
Chaos
August 18th, 2012
5:45 am
“Not diverse enough…” And so it goes, all the kids (white, black, latino and otherwise) will sit at home because their choirs aren’t racially diverse enough. God help us. ASO has just participated in the discrimination that they thought that they were trying to protest.
Tabitha
August 18th, 2012
6:18 am
If the ASO wanted other good choirs to sing, there is not a problem. But when the ASO says your choir is not “diverse enough” that is just wrong at so many levels. First its an implied criticism of racism that is not true. Second, its a statement that what we value is the color of your skin, not the quality of your music. Third, these two choirs are about as “diverse” as the ASO. The ASO are hypocrites.
It seems that the ASO has compounded the problem with a lie which makes all this much, much worse.
The ASO just shot themselves inthe crotch. It was a willfully stupid decision that is likely unrepariable.
Dc
August 18th, 2012
7:05 am
And of course the same folks who cry “cobb entitlement syndrome” would be wanting someone to go to jail if this had happened to a more “diverse” high school……the double standard really does get old
Old timer
August 18th, 2012
7:46 am
Not being diverse enough is discrimination of its own.
rolls eyes
August 18th, 2012
7:49 am
well then Old person, lets just close the whole dang thing down so NO one is offended!
Pardon My Blog
August 18th, 2012
7:57 am
The ASO made a mistake early on by only inviting these two schools year after year instead of working with other high schools as well. The groundwork was laid to a sense of entitlement. To say that they are not diverse enough is racist especially when you look at other cultures represented at these two schools. Why should Morris Brown get to perform each year? I see no diversity there.
Having said that, each year different high schools (and not just from the Metro area) should be invited to try out for this special program irregardless of race, religion, etc. It should be to celebrate the youth and their talents, not the color of their skin.
Mad in Avondale
August 18th, 2012
8:24 am
TALENT knows no boundaries or barriers, color or otherwise. I am sick and tired of this diversity crap, when HARD WORK is what should be awarded. You talk of “entitlement”? My brother and his wife sacrificed YEARS to send their daughter to Lassiter and guess what, folks – she EARNED a music scholarship because of the hard work ethic instilled in her by her parents and a great mentor & teacher, Mr. Alfred Watkins. – a black man. Mr. Watkins didn’t notice what color or ethnicity his students were – he made them work their little asses off. Too bad for ASO, I hope they get the support they need from the diverse Atlanta population when all of the entitled Buckheaders & East Cobb folks refuse to pay for another ticket. I won’t be going to another concert.
UGA Parents
August 18th, 2012
8:45 am
Was the initial statement about not being diverse enough made by Mr. Romanstein in an e-mail, a phone call, a letter? I have not yet heard or read the exact details of how that statement was delivered to the schools. Mr. Dillon of Cobb schools states the “schools were informed by Symphony officials that their choruses are not diverse enough, and that the Symphony would be inviting a third, more diverse chorus.” Is Mr. Romanstein denying making such a statement? Is he trying to spin his statement? Did the choral directors misinterpret his statements? I lean toward believing the choral directors reported what was said to them and Mr. Romanstein is trying to spin his statement to look less offensive since he has not denied making such a statement.
Solutions
August 18th, 2012
8:46 am
Why not pair Grady with Walton or Lassiter for the gig at ASO? This diversity nonsense is just code talk for lowering standards and dumbing down education. I am tired of hearing the excuse that it is the “poor home environment” that holds black and brown kids back, it is not, rather it is all the things they have that distract them from books. Too much tv, internet, video games, and street time hold them back, not a lack of a tv, computer, internet connection, or video games. You cannot get more deprived than former President Abe Lincoln, reportedly doing homework by the light of the fireplace, and writing on the back of a shovel. But he was not distracted by tv, internet, games, and street thugs.
B
August 18th, 2012
8:50 am
And Grady is diverse? I guarantee they have a higher percentage of blacks in their choir that Walton and Lassiter have whites in their program. Does this mean Milton’s basketball team should not be able to play in the playoffs because they are not diverse enough?
Clark2
August 18th, 2012
8:52 am
di·ver·si·ty/diˈvərsitē/
Noun:
The state of being diverse; variety.
A range of different things.
Does this say anything about race? Nope. The ASO wants a variety of choirs. Using the word diverse was dumb, because people will jump to conclusions and get their panties in a wad.
The ASO wishes to give different kids the chance to sing. Why is that bad? And are they going to start using other choirs besides Gwinnett for major concerts now?
rolls eyes
August 18th, 2012
8:56 am
Clark2 so are you calling the kids things??
rolls eyes
August 18th, 2012
8:57 am
Solutions from what I understand is that they have over 200 kids in the choir and did not want to have to pick to set for the ASO’s diversity garbage…
Clark2
August 18th, 2012
8:59 am
from the Cobb Patch article (in which the original author did some serious spinning and publishing before getting hard facts from Cobb and a statement from the ASO)
“Because the full choruses would not be able to perform with the Symphony, both Lassiter and Walton have declined to participate this year.”
Other points: Grady is a great school and is not “all black”. Neither are Walton & Lassiter “all white”. Find out about the humans that go to those schools before you start tossing generalizations!
Clark2
August 18th, 2012
9:01 am
Rolls, give me a break. “Diversity” is a buzz word.
Clark2
August 18th, 2012
9:02 am
: differing from one another : unlike
2
: composed of distinct or unlike elements or qualities
Happy?
rolls eyes
August 18th, 2012
9:03 am
honey your a bigot and its showing
SHS bandmom
August 18th, 2012
9:27 am
I am so glad that I did not let my child do their youth group. This whole thing makes me sad. If any of you know anything about chorus and band, this is not entitlement.. These kids work very hard. You learn to march in that heat. You practice every day for band. Have any of you ever seen the Lassiter Marching Band? They are where they are because they are GOOD. These are kids that want to be there. You can not get that good with Mediocricy
ASOrryyouscrewedup
August 18th, 2012
9:34 am
“The ASO has a long tradition of performing with amateur groups, including the Atlanta Boy Choir and glee clubs at Spelman and Morehouse colleges.” Wow, now that is a really diverse group. I’m not sure why people are calling the Cobb schools entitled, when they were invited year after year. And then to be suddenly told “you’re not diverse enough.” Anyone with half a brain can see what this is. If you question that, just turn it around to if a predominatly black school was uninvited for not being “diverse enough.” What do you think would happen then?
catlady
August 18th, 2012
9:37 am
I am glad they are giving other groups a chance. That sounds reasonable to me.
Chuntter
August 18th, 2012
9:45 am
Out of curiosity Maureen, among you salaried writers daily singing praises to the welfare state and our Food Stamp president over at the Atlanta Journal-Constitution … what percent are black?
Lee
August 18th, 2012
10:04 am
““We want the stages of the Atlanta Symphony, whether here, Verizon, or Chastain, to reflect the diversity of Atlanta.”
In today’s politically correct vernacular, “diversity” means non-white.
There was no “misinterpretation” here. Romanstein said exactly what he meant and now, realizing those same white people he just “dissed” make up the core population of people who donate to his organization, he’s in damage control mode.
As Homer Simpson would say; “Doh!!”
peter yaun
August 18th, 2012
10:26 am
So…does that mean that the Atlanta Symphony in their quest for diversity will forbid
the likes of the Mississippi Mass Choir, The Celtic Singers, white Italian opera singers, Afro-American Drummers, the Morman Tabernacle Choir, etc., etc., etc? (a phrase from “the King and I” which would also lack diversity (one English woman and a cast of Asians, for heaven sakes!)
SEE
August 18th, 2012
10:32 am
Nothing like biting the hand that feeds you!
RJ
August 18th, 2012
10:32 am
First, Grady is not Aa black school. I agree in choosing more schools. It really wasn’t necessary to say more diverse. Why should these be the only schools that get to perform. Good for them. And for the record Grady has a fine choir. Diverse or black does not mean subpar.
Really?
August 18th, 2012
10:39 am
RJ so you would be ok if Grady was told no bc they were not diverse enough?
SEE
August 18th, 2012
10:40 am
So, RJ, you agree, it IS a predominately black choir. “Diverse or black does not mean subpar”.
I’m sure if ASO disinvited a “diverse” choir for one that better displays the “unity” of the ASO, you’d be fine with that…right?
It’s not about allowing other choirs to participate…it’s about feeling comfortable saying in public that majority black choirs are okay, but not majority white. That’s the definition of discrimination.
Bernie
August 18th, 2012
10:42 am
SEE @ 10:32 am – I am quite sure in the ASO donation request forms there is NOT a disclaimer that says ” If you donate money to OUR organization, we in turn give you and your kids schools exclusive rights to have YOUR KIDS SCHOOL as the only performing group!”
This smells of the same sense of ENTITLEMENT that the more wealthy among us, are some how more special and deserve special consideration than anyone else because of their wealth and the things they bestow among the less fortunate.
I give you another perfect example! Mitt Romney ” I am not giving “YOU PEOPLE” any more information than I think YOU PEOPLE should have!
Solutions
August 18th, 2012
10:45 am
The people in Cobb have the Cobb Performing Arts Center, the one the Cobb County Commission forced on us by claiming it will give the public schools a place to perform. I notice their calendar is wide open, with lots of days when nothing is scheduled. Has anyone held the County Commission responsible for this boondoggle at the public’s expense? Walton and Lassiter should put on their own performance at the Cobb Performing Arts Center, in direct competition with the ASO!
SBinF
August 18th, 2012
10:56 am
Why the immediate thought of race? Diversity does not refer only to racial diversity. Sounds like the high schoolers need to suck it up. It’s an honor, not an entitlement to be chosen to sing along with the ASO.
SBinF
August 18th, 2012
11:01 am
And also, why is everyone crying about choosing choirs that don’t “measure up” to those at Walton and Lassiter. I miss the part where there is a competition to perform with the ASO. It is likely the highlight of a young choristers high school career. It seems that many more than just those at Walton or Lassiter should be given the opportunity to perform with a world class musical organization such as the ASO.
Michael
August 18th, 2012
11:07 am
Solution: select by lottery. This is a ridiculous argument to be having.
Interesting Observation
August 18th, 2012
11:19 am
We all know the word “diversity” is toxic in a deep red state. Get over yourselves already.
PatDowns
August 18th, 2012
11:34 am
40+ comments and only one poster has given kudos to the ASO Players Assoc. for trying to bring something positive to what probably is a massive lack of communication from ASO administrators. ALL of you are a sorry bunch.
bu2
August 18th, 2012
11:47 am
Actually several commended the players for trying to make up for the sorry ASO administrators.
It makes sense to have different choirs perform. I’m sure there are others that are close to Walton and Lassiter in caliber. But its obvious to anybody without their head in the sand that they were too white for the head of the ASO.
Follow the Course
August 18th, 2012
11:51 am
Loose or alienate your audience and loose your funding. The scope of the ASO decision transcends the purpose of the ASO. The “arts” are traditionaly “open” to all … not here … not anymore.
Georgia Coach
August 18th, 2012
11:51 am
@William Casey I am sure you experienced North Fulton entitlement too! ASO used a poor choice of words, but opening the opportunity up to others is a positive thing. Walton and Lassiter will survive.
Bernie
August 18th, 2012
11:57 am
SBinF @ 10:56 am – Unfortunately, In Georgia and especially in the South and across the Nation terms like Diversity, Inclusion, Fairness, Equality, Equal opportunity and doing the right thing by others are very DIRTY and OFFENSIVE words and terms!
Any other similar words or terms that does not agree or support the “White ONLY” mindset, that WE are better than YOU! We have more MONEY than YOU, We can and should be allowed to do what ever we WANT, Say whatever We Want to Anyone, Whenever we WANT and if you disagree, you just need to SHUT UP , BE QUIET and get back over there somewhere, away from US and GET back into your PLACE.
You are also a TRAITOROUS S.O.B. and you should be run out of town! Never to be seen around these parts again. If You do not like it…Its TOO BAD for YOU!
Welcome to America and The South……Always has been that Way and Always Will remain that way! it seems….
chanting crowds of…….USA! USA! USA!
Prof
August 18th, 2012
11:58 am
When I first read the news story about this, I thought it was unfortunate that Mr. Romanstein had used the word “diverse.” That word has become code for “racial/ethnic minorities,” whereas usually in the musical arena it means “varied time-periods of music” or “different groups of players or instruments”…all relating to the music.
I agree with Maureen that I don’t see why the choirs should expect to be asked back every year when that’s not the usual ASO policy.
PatDowns
August 18th, 2012
12:04 pm
@ bu2
August 18th, 2012
11:47 am
“Actually several commended the players for trying to make up for the sorry ASO administrators.”
No, you are wrong. NoahVale is the only one who commended the ASO PA through posts as of 11:51. And, since I brought it up – thank you ASO musicians for trying to bring a bit of sanity to a situation spun out of control…by both sides of the issue.
Out by The Pond
August 18th, 2012
12:06 pm
Am I the only who has noticed that it was only the East Cobbers who have interjected race into the discussion? Proud to have been an East Cobber since 1951. Maybe it’s time to move.
Follow the Course
August 18th, 2012
12:11 pm
I am reading these comments relative to “a poor choice of words”. These are educated people who actually (supposed to) know what they were saying. Therefore, a “poor choice of words” equates to a possible poor choice within management” … what “other areas within the ASO are there or have been “poor choices”?
Bernie
August 18th, 2012
12:18 pm
PatDowns @ 11:34 am – You are right, How could WE be so thoughtless!
Those ” POOR” little ASO association members, are now shaking pitifully in their little gated communities, and Condos worrying about if that are going to have next month’s homeowners association fees and enough to have their luxury cars washed and waxed. Because, some idiot in the ASO administration P’oD some of our financial benefactors from COBB county! It really breaks my little bitty, tiny, bleeding HEART!
Never mind the FACT that the ASO Administrators have refused to bend to the selfish will of the very spoiled and privileged housewives and children of COBB COUNTY! and DO THE RIGHT THING for the community AT Large!
How insensitive and thoughtless of All of US to make such offensive comments!
I too, am truly OUTRAGED! at such despicable BEHAVIOR! by the “POOR CHOICE” ( coded terms for agreeing with other non whites) of words by ASO Admistration……………..NOT!
Bernie
August 18th, 2012
12:25 pm
PatDowns @ 11:34 am – I am of the opinion the entire story should not have been here at ALL! Especially, in light of what transpired!
Gerry Lopez
August 18th, 2012
12:43 pm
If Romanstein had wanted to be clear about his definition of “diversity” he would have made it clear at the time he dis-invited the Cobb kids. He also needs to address why he agreed to let “select groups” of the Cobb chorus’ performance with the Grady chorus.
the problem is that Mr Romenstein lives a a bigger fishbowl than that encompassing the more tunneled visioned Mid Town Atlanta. It would be interesting to ask Stanley about how he is addressing the lack of diversity in his own organization.
ASO racism needs to stop
August 18th, 2012
12:43 pm
In general i agree that giving more high schools the opportunity to perform is good. But in this case, it does appear to be a racially motivated decision – just note the demographics of the high schools that get selected instead…ASO may have inadvertently used “diversity” to justify its decision but those words tell us a lot about what was on their minds.
Entitled to what?
August 18th, 2012
1:03 pm
“I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.” or their talents, skills or abilities.
Sounds like this only applies to diverse children.
If the ASO wants different choirs, fine, so be it. But, there are much better ways to handle this. Maybe the ASO needs a PR specialist.
Shark Punch!
August 18th, 2012
1:08 pm
Anyone in Romanstein’s position should really have enough savvy to know what will happen when you accuse a group of lacking diversity nowadays. When you’re in the public relations game, you need to show some humility and own up to your mistakes (even the unintentional ones) instead of throwing a tantrum when you’re taken out of context.
Michele
August 18th, 2012
1:27 pm
NEVER will I ever attend another ASO event. This is reverse discrimination to the max, and the ASO should be ashamed. Would they allow an all black choir? Would they allow an all Asian choir? I believe so. Let’s get back to reality in this miserable city. Atlanta has truly lost it!
mountain man
August 18th, 2012
1:33 pm
Sounds like a case of foot in mouth disease. It is just like the Chik-fil-a flap. People will choose to either patronize ASO or not depending on their belief about its policy.
Parent Teacher
August 18th, 2012
1:51 pm
Why is this such an issue?
Because the predominantly white middle class keeps getting screwed. There are progams to help minorities, programs to help the poor, programs and tax breaks for the wealthy, tax breaks for corporations, etc… But nothing, absolutely nothing to help the average middle class citizen. People are fed up with favoritism for what ever reason and in this case it is rearing its ugly head as discrimination. It is time for the politicians to rcecognize that most of America is left out when decisions are made. Stop the social agenda from the GOP and the entitlements from the Democrats and get back to helping the struggling middle class.
SBinF
August 18th, 2012
1:53 pm
Oh yeah Parent Teacher, woe betide us all, white folks have such a tough lot in this country!
Pullease.
Far be it to assume that diversity means racial diversity.
Maureen Downey
August 18th, 2012
2:00 pm
@To all, After reading these comments, I have one prediction: The ASO will reconsider ever inviting a school choir to join its holiday bill.
I have to agree that many folks here are applying a limited definition to “diversity.” Anyone who has a child applying to college knows that diversity now refers to far more than race. When colleges seek a diverse student body, they are talking about geography, choice of majors, high school size, high school programs, income, extracurricular interests, talents and sports.
I also don’t get why it is wrong for a major metropolitan symphony to make an effort to have other high school groups featured. Sounds like the Cobb schools had a great run with the ASO. But there are hundreds of high schools in metro Atlanta.
Can’t chat any more as my prodigal college son is returning home tonight from eight months abroad. Using his return as a motivator to vacuum behind the couch.
Cheers, Maureen
Parent Teacher
August 18th, 2012
2:10 pm
@SBinF
You obviously can’t tell that I meant ALL middle class. It happens to be that it is mostly white.
Furthermore I don’t see you rejecting my piont. It sounds like you feel setting unfair rules to “equal the playing field” is what you want. Why don’t we handi cap the best to bring them down to the lowest. This is exactly what is happening.
Burroughston Broch
August 18th, 2012
2:17 pm
ASO has a long history of inviting the same choirs every year, Morris Brown and Gwinnett Young Singers being two in particular. Neither is “diverse”, but Morris Brown is given a free pass as it is almost all black. “Diversity” in today’s PC context means there are too many Anglos and not enough blacks and Hispanics.
It’s interesting to watch the ASO musicians (themselves a very un-diverse bunch) make political hay against the ASO management on this issue also.
SEE
August 18th, 2012
2:25 pm
Maureen stated:
“many folks here are applying a limited definition to “diversity.” Anyone who has a child applying to college knows that diversity now refers to far more than race. When colleges seek a diverse student body, they are talking about geography, choice of majors, high school size, high school programs, income, extracurricular interests, talents and sports.”
Right…ASO was referring to the choir members lack of extracurricular interests and narrow choice of majors. Come on…we all know it’s because they were ‘too white’. I see alot of bigotry on this blog against white people…’cause, you know, if you are white then you aren’t ever poor or discriminated against, everything is given to you, you never have to work for what you get. Thanks for letting me know. I didn’t realize, as I go without a cell phone and cable TV, can’t afford to fix my car, and living off of macaroni and cheese, that I’m among the “priviledged” group.
Really?
August 18th, 2012
2:25 pm
Well then if they want diverse, then STOP letting Morris Brown, etc do them….
Solutions
August 18th, 2012
2:29 pm
It is open season on the successful, hence the movement called the secession of the successful. The more the diversity crowd lowers standards, the more the successful leave the crowd behind. I urge a complete boycott of all things Atlanta by the successful in East Cobb! Do not donate to charities, attend events in Atlanta, or shop in Fulton or DeKalb county, if they reject our successful kids, then we reject Atlanta and all it represents.
Follow the Course
August 18th, 2012
2:32 pm
Ms. Downey … interesting comment … you expand the term “diversity” to enhance your argument … but also Yes to the ever expanding term “diversity” which is beginning to mean “exclsions” of the certain parts of the “middle class” .. I also have previously stated in other blogs that shools and universities should project on the stage and playing fields participants that represent the “diversity” of the enrollment. … IE UGA … in football should be required to have more other ethnic groups on the playing field … or stage …
Chuntter
August 18th, 2012
2:34 pm
Maureen, perhaps while vacuuming you’ll come across that AJC diversity question of mine you’ve swept under the rug?
Follow the Course
August 18th, 2012
2:38 pm
While I am here, I must say that we all have more in common than we do in difference … BUT the term “Diversity” and the outright plausible utilization drives a wedge between us all … “diversity is justified legal discrimination.
SBinF
August 18th, 2012
2:45 pm
“Furthermore I don’t see you rejecting my piont. It sounds like you feel setting unfair rules to “equal the playing field” is what you want. Why don’t we handi cap the best to bring them down to the lowest. This is exactly what is happening.”
I’m sorry, but that’s a load of malarkey. You are buying into the idea that any minority that accomplishes anything does so with special help. That’s untrue. I’m a minority, solidly middle class, and I’ve had to compete on an equal playing field the same as everyone else. I can agree with you statement that the middle class gets screwed, but that’s irrespective of race. My accomplishments in life, college, graduate school, employment, et al, have not come at the expense of an equally qualified Caucasian somewhere.
SBinF
August 18th, 2012
2:47 pm
And even IF the ASO is choosing minority choirs in the name of “diversity” (a point that I’m not conceding), who cares? It’s a private organization. This is not competitively decided, so they can pick whatever choirs for whatever reason. I am fairly certain that the choirs at Walton and Lassiter will continue to thrive either way.
Parent Teacher
August 18th, 2012
2:51 pm
I never said “any minoritytha accomplishes anything does so with special help.” The fact remains that the reason for the outrage on this subject is that “diversity” is again being used an equalizer rather than performance.
Further I said the middle class gets screwed while all other groups get special consideration. And yes this often includes minorities.
SBinF
August 18th, 2012
2:55 pm
WHAT PERFORMANCE?
This isn’t a competition! Have you even heard any of the choirs involved? The ASO can choose choirs for whatever reason the organization pleases.
SBinF
August 18th, 2012
2:57 pm
The point of the symphony’s outreach is not to support the “best” choirs (however you’ve decided to determine that). The aim is to provide an experience for many students in various demographics.
Melaine
August 18th, 2012
3:07 pm
If you’ve ever had a subscription to the ASO you will understand that the only diversity they really like is green. They are constantly asking for money. We had seats for the season in the past and were deciding on whether to not to subscribe to the ASO or the theater this year. They’ve made our choice for us. Thanks for the heads up!!
Follow the Course
August 18th, 2012
3:09 pm
Still here … reading the AJC Sports page … where is the “diversity” in the AJC “Super 11″ ?
Pride and Joy
August 18th, 2012
3:17 pm
Parent Teacher said it perfectly.
If you are a white middle class American you are screwed.
The NAACP is an organization for the advancement of colored people. No one complains it is racist but if there was EVER an NAAWP it would be called racist.
The Cobb sutdents got screwed out of an opportunjity only because they wre white. Maureen argues they’ve been invited for years…but it’s not the SAME STUDENTS, Maureen, don’t you understand that?
Cobb got the shaft simply because they were white. THAT IS RACISM.;
.
Noble Square Nupe
August 18th, 2012
3:24 pm
As i stated. I’m a former choir member from Walton and I am black. Im not going to lie and say that our choir was super diverse. But lets face it, if majority of african american students focus on other after school activites such as sports, the the diversity in arts programs (theater, band, orchestra, chorus) will be slim. Its not tge fault of the students. Hell its not anyone’s fault. And yet these students are being penalized. Walton’s choir travels and performs both domestically and internationally. Yes the east cobb community is financially blessed. But im sick of that being the reason why others think that we accomplished so much. We earned our achievements through hard work snd practice. We spent hours after school rehearsing. Ive seen other choirs in the city and they are pretty damn good as well. If aso wanted other choirs, then thats all they had to do. But adding this diversity crap as the reason is BS. First they will say refer to diversity as color. Next it will be gender. Soon it will be that there arent enough people with gray eyes. What does diversity have to do with artistic talent?
Solutions
August 18th, 2012
3:31 pm
I think we can kiss ASO goodbye……..
Roxy
August 18th, 2012
3:36 pm
Sadly, if your opinion isn’t the politically correct mantra as prescribed by Mr. Romanstein, you haters think we have problems-really? Here in EC, if our money isn’t diverse enough for the ASO, we have amazing and talented groups that sincerely and honorably appreciate community support.
Bernie
August 18th, 2012
4:20 pm
If the ASO, for what ever reason decides not to invite any future high school choirs, it will only deprive the children of this unique experience very few would ever have again and that’s a shame. All of the students, then can thank a very small group of vocal Cobb County parents who have acted childishly and very selfishly for no good reason at all.
Pride and Joy @ 3:17 pm – Says its racist despite the invitation of the same schools, it not the same students. A GED graduate would only have absurd reasoning.
Chuntter @ 2:34 pm – This one is in a world of their own. very scary!
Parent Teacher @ 1:51 pm – This one is Brain Dead..maybe a Parent. God help us if they are Teacher!
Michele @ 1:27 pm – This one…Ignorance gone wild!
ASO racism needs to stop @ 12:43 pm – Mentally handicapped, slow learner for sure! the user name says issues other than the ASO!
comments on the com mentors: Below are the Extremes!
Really? @ 2:25 pm – This one is seriously confused – MORRIS BROWN has been DEAD for YEARS! where have they been? this choir now probably consists of ONE!
Follow the Course @ 12:11 pm – “Poor choice” code for supporting status quo, believes shame for not supporting parents selfish desires! seeks no changes – leave as is! Typical Cobb County Republican!
PatDowns @ 11:34 am – Worried that ASO members are going to starve as a result!..they will just move to other cities. probably best anyway, Being that Cobb parents are acting like Cretins!
All of the other comments of charges of discrimination, You can bet they have not participated in or seen anything that is even remotely close to being ARTS related. They shake in fear, when they see more one other person that does not look like them! Reside and work far outside of Metro area! Avid Fox News watchers for sure!
Finally,
Solutions @ 3:31 pm – A Cobb County resident with a extremely high opinion of themselves. Statement does reflect reality! Cobb county is not THAT POWERFUL!
Trust ME!
CapricornToo
August 18th, 2012
4:51 pm
Morehouse sings the Christmas program with the ASO every year, and has for the past 30 seasons. Where’s the diversity there?
The management of this orchestra is hypocritial beyond belief and deserves to be fired if the orchestra is to survive in its present, world-class form. They drive the organization into a $20 million dollar debt and then alienate the suburban audiences who can afford to buy tickets. Just what is wrong with this picture?
Atlanta mom
August 18th, 2012
5:42 pm
So why do people here think the Grady choir is any less than Lasiter or Walton?
Follow the Course
August 18th, 2012
5:54 pm
CapricornToo – why alienate their base? some sub-plot here.
Chuntter
August 18th, 2012
6:07 pm
@Bernie:
Move out of your mother’s basement, find a job and pay some taxes, Bernie, And you’ll doubtless have less inclination (or time) to race-bait every issue.
You still write like a semi-literate, by the way!
Bernie
August 18th, 2012
6:12 pm
Chuntter @6:07 pm – Ahhh! The touching of the nerves! how sweet the sound!
Follow the Course
August 18th, 2012
6:29 pm
Bernie … please list all the code words us folks can’t use … please advise. Per you “diverse” view … I do not live in Cobb County but vote Republican from time to time … it is the person not the platform. Your “typical” personal attack … is “typical” when you can not support with facts but with loud aquisitions.
Bernie
August 18th, 2012
6:43 pm
Follow the Course @ 6:29 pm – Now that’s a change! especially when it has been your crowd who has been making all of the decisions! Listening to my kind has never been any of interest to you or your neighbors. go back and review my comment time stamp 11:29 pm – the correction. No comments from Maureen or the AJC or any other posters regarding the issue of the Children of Atlanta being forced to walk to school. Yet we are all embroiled in a heated discussion of denials by a SYMPHONY organization and persons with an excessive inordinate amount of high self esteem of themselves, because their child was told NO!
Do you not see the IRONY?
One group who has everything and is complaining….and the OTHER who has NOTHING and cannot BE HEARD!
Bernie
August 18th, 2012
6:45 pm
Or Seen……….!
KIM
August 18th, 2012
6:56 pm
Is anyone else just plain sick and tired of political correctness? Is anyone else tired of organizations have to worry with silliness like this?
Bernie
August 18th, 2012
7:05 pm
KIM @ 6:56 pm – its not about political correctness…its about Right & WRONG! The Coob County kids have had numerous chances, now allow other communities children to share in the same experience. its the ME..ME…ME , crowd all the time! there is nothing discriminating about suggesting or allowing others to join in the experience who have not in the past ever had the opportunity to share. Did not your
Mother or father encourage you to share? with others?
The World must share! this is what makes it better for ALL! if only one group gets to get on the ride and one else is that fair? is that so discriminating when others have never gotten on the ride AT ALL? I say …..thou Protested too MUCH!
KIM
August 18th, 2012
7:11 pm
The mistake for ASO was to ever have allowed only a couple of schools invited each year. Their development person should have seen that this was a no win situation. BUT, regardless of the Cobb parents who feel entitled, I say that ALL of us should support the ASO in every way possible. There is no way Atlanta can be considered an internationally competitive city without strong fine arts. The city must have strong schools, outstanding fine arts and museums and athletics. There has to be a strong sense of community–the metro community. Not just downtown nor just the suburbs. The “city” takes in all of that. Shame on pettiness. Shame on poor judgement.
Burroughston Broch
August 18th, 2012
7:12 pm
@Atlanta Mom
Because they aren’t. I have heard all three and Grady isn’t in the same league as Lassiter and Walton. Plus, the Grady folks have no idea because Atlanta City schools never participate in any state choral activities.
Regarding the ASO:
Their management isn’t diverse.
Their oversized staff isn’t diverse.
Their musicians aren’t diverse.
Their audiences aren’t diverse.
So why do they require that guest choirs be diverse?
Roxy
August 18th, 2012
7:18 pm
KIM- political correctness is code that means being qualified and outstanding doesn’t measure up at ASO and their DOWNTOWN agenda. In REAL life when a contract expires, it can be renegotiated or ended. No one believes that ASO didn’t have a very POLITICALLY CORRECT agenda which translates to bashing East Cobb for their superior accomplishments. Hey haters–get educated, get a job and buy the house next door–you, too, can attend Walton.
Tone Man
August 18th, 2012
7:54 pm
After reading all the ignorant, ill-informed comments both here and in the original story, I see metro Atlanta is just as stupid as it was when I lived there. You don’t deserve a symphony orchestra. Remain the small-minded, provincial, backwoods joke that you are.
CapricornToo
August 18th, 2012
8:13 pm
@B. Brock – I believe you’ll find the ASO hires on the basis of ability, not race. Same thing in the world of jazz. I wouldn’t want to live in a society governed by the obsessive race- counting some people here expect.
Sandy Springs Parent
August 18th, 2012
8:24 pm
Last Year I had the honor of being a chaparone for Ridgeview Middle School in Sandy Springs for a battle of Chorus’s compitition at one of the Atlanta City Schools. I believe it was MLK. All I know is that it was in a terrible are of the city with drug deals going on the corners, but when you arrived at the school, it was one of the most beutiful schools I had ever seen. The school was nicer than any I ever seen in any school district, in White areas or even Private areas, ( where Walker wins hands down for the best one to take your SSAT or SAT because it is a nice atmosphere). The compition included Middle schools from chorus’s from City of Atlanta, Fulton County and Several Private Schools. There may have been schools from other counties.
I went in with the 6th grade group and got to hear all the 6th grade contestants. The all black schools sounded like the Church Chourus featured in the Tyler Perry movies. They did not react well when the mostly black judges on the judges panel told then that was not what they were looking for, but more classical singing. You heard alot of crying. Next went several of the basically all white Private Schools, Galloway, Lovett etc… They on the other hand were flat. They had one of the white judges tell them that they did not have any tempo, any life to their performances. Again you heard alot of crying. Sitting through these harsh judging one after another was tough. Then you got to Ridegeview Chorus, which is pretty much 30% Hispanic, 30% Black 30% White and it was beautiful. The performance had everything the judges said they were looking for in all the other groups. Still as a mother you are sitting there worried it was going to be another ripping critique to 11-12 year olds. Instead it was a Bravo, that is what we were looking for. Now was it our talented teacher Dr. Messer, or that we have a truely Diverse Chorus. Is it that every single member of the Chorus, Band and Orchestra Knows that they will get to go to New Orleans in March, no matter how rich or poor they are.
Why shoulld Walton and Lassitor have a lock on being the only Chorus performing in front of the ASO, they don’t even allow Apartments to be built in their districts, that is how they keep them selves pure.
Pardon My Blog
August 18th, 2012
8:46 pm
Just ignore Bernie, it’s people like him that keep this Country divided and he is personally not worth our time. To the subject at hand, the ASO is not obligated to include any high school choral groups but did so to promote the arts. Unfortunately they chose to utilize the same choral groups for several years and probably someone got their panties in a wad because they wanted their child showcased. There are alot of talented kids in all areas of Metro Atlanta and there is alot of talent beyond Morehouse but ultimately it is who can help fill the seats. I think you will find some great holiday concerts at the local high schools complete with a full orchestra and choral group without the high price. Try it, you may like it!
NewsReader
August 18th, 2012
8:51 pm
JMHO, but I believe two things here. First, this is much to do about nothing that has been so far blown out of proportion it isn’t even funny. Second, I believe this entire thing is the result of a story published and designed to sell papers, and the accuracy is about as credible as any other story experienced by anyone who has ever had any contact with any news reporting agency. In other words, they get just a few facts of it right, and the rest is sensational drama and rhetoric. I don’t believe for a second the ASO had any ill will or intentions, and somebody or entity in Cobb has their panties in a knot because they are not going to get to go this year.
Follow the Coursee
August 18th, 2012
8:58 pm
Pardon My Blog … Agreed … this “entitlemenent” issue has been established over the years, what has happened is a “habit” of these choirs preforming … this “habit” has become an “entitlement” … and it is habit so therfore the Choirs should be rotated … but the funding to the ASO may well be affected.
Roxy
August 18th, 2012
9:14 pm
NewsReader–NO-we cannot “all get along” that’s what people say when they trash others and are floored that there is opposition. If you have standards and THE TRUTH on your side, you say, “This is the truth of the situation. While you may disagree with this position, these are the facts and the truth.” Then, the only educated response is, “I don’t agree, but, those are the facts.”
Too bad ASO is so busy being politically correct that TRUTH got lost. Seriously–say what you mean, and mean what you say.” It’s just fashionable these days to criticize anyone who dedicates their life and paycheck to providing every opportunity to their children. We work tirelessly to live in EC so that our children have chances rather than HANDOUTS AND ENTITLEMENTS>
Melaine
August 18th, 2012
9:21 pm
Hey ASO, you made the news across the pond. Just read about this in a UK paper. Gotta love it.
Bernie
August 18th, 2012
9:36 pm
Pardon My Blog @ 8:46 pm -”Sic gorgiamus allos subiectatos nunc” — “We gladly feast on those who would subdue us”. Not just pretty words.-Morticia Addams
Burroughston Broch
August 18th, 2012
9:56 pm
@ CapricornToo
The ASO hires on the basis of whom you know in upper level ASO management, the ASO Board, and the Woodruff Arts Center Board.
Burroughston Broch
August 18th, 2012
10:10 pm
It’s interesting to compare the ASO staff to the slimmed-down Philadelphia Orchestra staff. The Philadelphia Orchestra is in bankruptcy and the ASO seems to be headed that way. Here are staff numbers with ASO first and PO second: administration 73/54, conductors 5/3, and librarians 3/2. Overall, the ASO has 37% more staff.
Sara
August 18th, 2012
10:29 pm
I am a long-time subscriber of ASO. I want the opportunity to hear different youth groups each year. I have no interest in hearing the same group of kids. It is a privilege to be able to perform with such amazing performers and there are many excellent, deserving groups out there. Why be limited? Granted, whether the choice of words were taken out of context or not, parents need to stop whining about their kids not getting what they want. Too much of that going on!
The Sanity Inspector
August 19th, 2012
12:05 am
This all sounds like something from the Too Good To Check File. The ASO wanting to have other area choruses have a turn sounds very reasonable to me.
bu2
August 19th, 2012
12:10 am
Its funny to see the people defending Romanstein and attacking “Cobb County Republicans.”
If he had replaced Morehouse with Emory and said he wanted to reflect the diversity of Atlanta or said he wanted a choir more similar to our subscriber base, these same people would be calling for him to be run out of town on a rail. But now, it is a misinterpretation of words and over-reaction.
Lil' Barry Bailout - Vote American
August 19th, 2012
8:46 am
“I am uncertain why there would be any expectation that once invited, a choir would be back every year.”
———————
Well, your paper’s own article says they were “disinvited”. Had they not been invited to perform this year, perhaps the expectation that the invitation would be honored would not exist.
SmallSites
August 19th, 2012
9:46 am
I’m going to point out something here that may be perceived (although not intended) as a defense of the ASO management actions regarding the “diversity” issue. Read it all before you jump to a conclusion.
First off, I think the whole diversity thing is beyond stupid. Next, I think it’s wonderful that the ASO musicians are choosing to use their resources (i.e., time and talent) to make that point.
However…
while I have NO doubt that there are those within the organization’s management who buy into the belief that such criteria for participation are valid, I would put forth that the foundation of the practice is tied more to monetary, rather than social motivations. I’ve spent many years writing grant proposals for arts organizations seeking the awarding of public grant money (Fulton County Arts Council, GA Council for the Arts, etc.), and I can tell you that the most common and consistent “concern” stated in panel reviews of those proposals was the “lack of diversity” in membership. One group in question was/is a volunteer organization, open to anyone who wanted to participate, and dependent on government grants for a significant portion of its operating budget. Here is a quote taken directly from one of the panel concensus statements: “Panel expressed concern with the organization’s efforts to diversify (ethnic/racial) its musicians”. Apparently, those who were already volunteering their time and efforts to operate the organization on a shoestring budget were expected to then go out and recruit new members based on the color of their skin. This particular organization was never denied funding based on this issue, but I know for a fact that others in the Atlanta area have been denied for this exact reason.
Basically, arts organizations are threatened with losing public funding unless they “diversify”…unless they play the government game of “political correctness” in order to avoid the APPEARANCE of being exclusive or discriminatory. I will grant (pun intended) that these days the amounts coming from government sources represents an ever shrinking percentage of any organization’s budget, but the fact remains that arts organizations need money to operate, and playing the game is often the way to get it…whether it makes sense or not.
Again – my point here is that this kind of basis for decision making has absolutely no place ANYWHERE (arts organizations or otherwise). But I have to wonder, for example, how many people who were so outspoken when the GA Council for the Arts was threatened with dissolution a few years ago are now denouncing the ASO’s actions, and how many of those realize that the government organization they supported is actually perpetuating the actions and policies they now decry.
Hold the ASO management accountable for their actions and let them know how ridiculous they’re being? Absolutely! Write, call, comment, blog…do it all! But I would challenge every taxpayer who holds that opinion to repeat every one of those communications to every public funding organization, right up to the NEA…because THAT is where these policies start…and they’re using YOUR tax money to enforce them!
And if you’re just dying to give yourself a headache, have a look at one of the forms that goes along with these funding applications: http://fultonarts.org/images/contracts-for-services/2012/demographics_chart.doc
derekcrane
August 19th, 2012
11:09 am
Atlanta Symphony Orchestra President Stanley Romanstein argues that it’s one of the goals of the organization to “reflect the diversity of Atlanta.”
Take a look at the job Romanstein has done for diversity with his orchestra. Aside from a few Asians, it is all white. Not a single black to “reflect the diversity of Atlanta” unless you count the librarian.
http://www.atlantasymphony.org/About/ConductorsAndMusicians.aspx
CapricornToo
August 19th, 2012
12:35 pm
@B. Broch – Sir, with all due respect that’s the silliest thing I’ve read here. Please inform us how many audition committees you’ve sat in on.
A world-class orchestra that is invited to play Carnegie Hall every year and amasses 20+ Grammy awards isn’t assembled by “who you know.” The competition for a job with the ASO is fiercely competitive, and the ones who survive the process are the best of the best.
Burroughston Broch
August 19th, 2012
7:54 pm
@ CapricornToo
I should have been clear that my post was aimed at staff, not musicians. I agree whole heartedly with you about the musicians, but staff is another matter. Staff hiring is based on whom you know.
monroe
August 19th, 2012
11:46 pm
The ATL–black mecca! not enough african americans in these cobb county choirs—atl needs more minorities to perform at the concerts–not rich white kids from suburbs.
KIM
August 20th, 2012
9:54 am
Grant writing is an art. It is also a perfect game play attempt. And that game has to include
“diversity” and appeal to the underserved. That is the name of the game…in arts, education, medicine. It is back breaking. And, unfortunately, some of the hardest working talent is left in the dust in order to play the game. Attempt to read the federal grants catalog…find a grant that just says “will be awarded to the most deserving due to hard work.” Good luck. Find ONE that will be awarded to an entity that serves those who work their fingers to the bone, or voices to the hilt, in order to produce a beautiful, well trained and projected product.
APS Parent
August 20th, 2012
11:45 am
As a (white) upper middle-class parent of a (white) member of the Grady High School chorus, I want to assure “@B” and other concerned commenters that the Grady High School chorus contains a sufficiently high percentage of Caucasian singers that you will not at any time feel that you are being subjected to (horror of horrors) a performance by a group “with a higher percentage of blacks in their choir than Walton and Lassiter have whites in their program.” My son and other outstanding musicians (black and white) at Grady High School will be surprised to learn from reading these blog comments that ASO’s invitation to them (and failure to recognize the continuing entitlement of Walton and Lassiter to this gig) constitutes an example of (1) racism; (2) “bashing East Cobb for their superior accomplishments;” and (3) proof that the white middle class are being “screwed.” I can only imagine the burdens and discrimination one must have to overcome while facing life as a middle class white person living in East Cobb County, but I am confident that the WHS and LHS communities are strong enough to survive this terrible indignity.
JustMe
August 20th, 2012
1:28 pm
I guarantee they have a higher percentage of blacks in their choir that Walton and Lassiter have whites in their program.
Actually they don’t. Grady is 66% black, Walton is 75% white and Lassiter is 80% white. All information came from here … http://www.usnews.com/education/best-high-schools
JustMe
August 20th, 2012
1:38 pm
And to add a little bit more info to my last post, notice also that Walton is just 6% black (total minority 25%), Lassiter is 11% black (20% total minority) and Grady is actually 26% white (enrollment excluding blacks but including white is 33.2%).
Teacher, Too
August 20th, 2012
2:10 pm
Talent should be the criteria for inviting the different choirs. If Walton and Lassiter are performing in various competitions and winning, then they have earned the invitation to perform with the ASO. Just like in athletics, atheletes get invited to play in sports leagues and school football teams on their talent and performance. So, if there are more African-American athletes in basketball and football, should they not be on the team because there isn’t enough “diversity” ? Imagine the outrage…not enough Hispanic, Asian, and Caucasion football players and basketball players. Wait, too many Caucasion, Hispanic, and South American baseball players, but not enough African- American players. This is ridiculous. Let all people earn their way through hard work, diligence, and talent.
PapaSmurf
August 20th, 2012
5:22 pm
We’re getting very close to the tipping point. This thread is a great example. White, middle-class America is sick & tired of the PC Diversity crap. I hear this every day. Change is coming folks. One step closer to a meritocracy.
Grady Chorus Student
August 20th, 2012
6:18 pm
We in the Grady chorus room are paying careful attention to this ongoing debate. We have yet to see one article posted that gives credit to Grady as one of the finest chorus programs in the state, and from what it seems, everyone seems inclined to forget that Mr. Hill and the chorus students have worked incredibly hard to get to the point that we are right now (albeit, might I add, the difficulty of getting enough funding, or a system wide arts program that focuses on keeping the arts available for all students). And yes, we pride ourselves in our diversity, both racial and otherwise. I can proudly say that the Grady chorus is essentially an accurate reflection of our school’s population (around 65% black, 35% other I believe), and the students come from all kinds of social groups. Even at incredibly diverse schools, oftentimes the chorus will not be an accurate reflection of the school, as it becomes the “cool thing to do”, or the “white thing to do”. I admit that I fall into the category of “over-privileged white kid”, but at Grady, I take incredible pride in the school’s diverse student body, and not just racially diverse. After attending this school for 3 years and paricipating in almost all of the musical programs Grady has to offer, I can’t in good conscience say that the chorus deserves anything less. I don’t believe I deserve it… I have a stable family who supports me, pays for music and instruments, and is willing to drive wherever I need to stay involved in what I love. However, many of my friends and classmates don’t have his luxury, and the amazing part of Grady is to always see that and be humbled. Most students in the suburban schools are well-off. They have had opportunities to sing with the ASO, and both have thriving arts programs. Their parents stay involved and fight for them. By all means, I understand how, from their perspective they feel as though they have earned this. But then look at a chorus like Grady’s, which definitely has students like me who have those extra opportunities, but for the most part is a self-motivated group, and tell me or anyone else that we don’t deserve that chance. Diversity is not a racial issue. However one wants to spin it, Grady’s population has more students who don’t get those opportunities, who don’t get the parental involvement, who don’t grow up in middle class families than our counterparts at Walton or Lassiter. The ASO should be proud of providing those students, not me or a wealthy kid at Walton, a once in a lifetime opportunity to do something that they’ve worked up to get, and the entire community should be proud of them as well.
GRADY BIHH
August 20th, 2012
7:31 pm
Go in, Heffy, go in! And on the actual issue at hand, you guys screaming “talent should be the deciding factor” etc. etc. are being extremely naive. Anyone who grows up in the real world (maybe not a gated community in Cobb county) knows that rarely are people hired or chosen based on talent. In today’s disgustingly prejudiced society (and not just race), people are chosen over others because of privileged. If you don’t believe this, please crawl back into your suburban mansion anddon’t come out. the current presedentail candidates are not there becaause they are the most talented people in the nation for the job. They are there because they are RICH and PRIVILEGED. I’m sure all you East Cobb people know about East Cobb baseball. This program, if a kid sticks with it and works hard, Is almost a guarantee at a D1 scholarship. The problem. It costs the parents thousands of dollars a year so that their kid can get that privileged to be coached by the best. Again, the most talented baseball players at 10 years old aren’t going to be the ones getting drafted. It will be the one’s whose parents payed $30k to get them through East Cobb baseball program. I’m sure you smart people can come up with a myriad of examples, but I think I’ve proven my point. What ASO is trying to do is get the kids without the PhD parents an opportunity to show themselves to a large audience and try to get their own scholarship money. I know some of the Grady chorus kids, and I guarantee you many of them work just as hard as anyone from the suburbs. But they are not getting the opportunity, the PRIVILEGE to show their talent like these kids from Lassiter and Walton do every year. So why don’t we allow these kids the privilege to show what they’ve got, and maybe they’ll have a scholarship waiting. And trust, me, they need that money much more that your kids do.
Glynn Finley
August 21st, 2012
2:59 am
http://www.atlsymphonymusicians.com/1/post/2012/08/atlanta-symphony-musicians-offer-to-perform-for-free-with-choral-groups.html
Atlanta patrons need to read this article in order to validate that the musicians of the Atlanta Symphony are the ones willing to compensate for the sub-standard performance of management within the Atlanta Symphony. Upper management seems to be unwilling to accept a responsibility for mis-management, be it financial, structural or in the arena of public relations. If it were not for the musicians, the musical and cultural opportunities available for the patrons of Atlanta would not exist. These musicians have consistently demonstrated their personal/professional commitment to culture and the “Fine Arts” as well as their commitment to the city of Atlanta by their training (from early childhood), quality of performance, public relations and continued willingness to compromise. The only professional/personal commitment management has demonstrated is their completion of a degree in business management while demonizing the musicians at the expense of the city of Atlanta, its patrons and the benefactors it has a responsibility to serve.