VISIONARY
The Los Angeles Philharmonic has come a long way during the past three decades. The move from that “concert hall” on 5th and Olive to the Chandler Pavilion. Mehta. World tours. Recordings. The appearance of every conceivable artist with the orchestra. The planning of the new Disney Concert Hall. The excellent Hollywood Bowl seasons.
We owe this and much more to Ernest Fleischmann’s vision and drive (“Exit a Force of Nature,” by Mark Swed, Feb. 15). No wonder he created a panic some years ago when he announced that he was moving to Paris. Lucky for us he changed his mind.
Years ago, on at least one occasion, I nearly joined the people “who wanted to kill him” after a rather unpleasant telephone conversation. One of my colleagues saved the day by insisting that “all geniuses at times behave badly.”
So, Mr. Fleischmann, we are glad you stopped by for some 30-odd years. You certainly made a difference in our lives.
AVIK GILBOA
President
The Gustav Mahler Society
Los Angeles
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