NSO Performs in New Venues

The National Symphony Orchestra began its new season on Sept. 26 at the Music Center at Strathmore in Bethesda, Md., after losing its home at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. The Kennedy Center, located in Washington, D.C., closed to the public on Sept. 15 following a dispute over governance and ticket sales.

The closure ended a 55-year partnership. The orchestra has performed in that building since its opening in 1971. The National Symphony Orchestra is now performing in six alternative venues across the greater D.C. region. The season is roughly half the length of a typical year. The Washington Post reported in August that ticket revenue is projected to drop by about 50 percent. Donations are expected to fall by 25 percent.

These financial pressures stem from cuts to the Kennedy Center's development department. The orchestra also lost key staff. Jean Davidson, the former executive director, resigned in March. She cited the turmoil at the center as the primary reason for her departure. The board of trustees, now controlled by the White House, has managed the transition.

Gianandrea Noseda, the music director, led the orchestra from Strathmore for the opening night. The program featured new works by Carlos Simon alongside pieces by Tchaikovsky and Respighi. Noseda has led the group for nine years. He extended his contract through 2031 after the previous leadership was replaced. He stated that leaving the post would have been too easy for a leader.

Rick Barber, the associate principal double bassist, joined the ensemble in 1995. He described the months following the news of the closure as a period of anxiety. He noted that the musicians remain focused on the performance. The audience at the Strathmore concert filled the hall. They responded with strong approval for the conductor and the players.

The National Symphony Orchestra is one of several major ensembles facing financial strain. The Phoenix Symphony recently closed its doors. Anne Midgette, a former classical music critic for The Washington Post, described the current situation as a test of audience commitment. She said the reduced season in multiple venues will determine the orchestra's future viability. The orchestra continues to perform without the full support of its former institutional infrastructure.