Trivial in Berlin

What is happening to the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra?  In this, their 125th anniversary year, the ensemble which was once the sacred instrument of Nikisch, Furtwangler and Karajan is - like so many other artistic organizations - shopping downmarket.  In a way, it seems the orchestra's standards are reflective of the material changes in Berlin itself: the dark, atmospheric city of the world of Le Carre and Harry Palmer turned into a slick, sharply lit identikit metropolis like any to be found in America.  Day to day life may be 'easier' there today in many ways but the troubled history which gave Berlin it's special character in the first place has been glossed over with plastic hi-risers and tacky theme-park attractions.

'The Berlin Experience' is certainly the throwaway soundbite of the Philharmonic.  Following the spectacular 35-year reign of Herbert von Karajan, where consistent artistic excellence became the envy of the musical world, the orchestra ... (more)