A Symphony of SILENCE...and only 31

During the past several Columbus Symphony concerts, the intermission has come to an end--a SILENT one at that. All that remains on the stage are the 31 musicians who would survive the drastic cutback of the Columbus Symphony. Just seeing how few musicians remain is sobering. But these 31 musicians sit there stare at the floor or at their music with blank expressions on their faces. A few chat with each other, but mostly there is SILENCE . In a place of music, there is none. It is most unsettling and a possible foretelling of the future.

Then, just as the house lights dim, and the conductor prepares to come on stage, these 31 musicians start applauding--as the musicians whose jobs are at stake take their places. Then there are a few brief moments of scattered warming up and the concert resumes.

Seeing this story told in SILENCE and size is an experience that must be seen to fully comprehend. For the many who have asked and are asking what this SILENT intermission is all about, now you know the story. Hopefully those of you who see this will proudly support the musicians and do all that is necessary to preserve the Columbus Symphony Orchestra.