Colorado Ballet to get orchestra accompaniment
Rocky Mountain News
August 24, 2006
Colorado Ballet and the Denver Musicians Assn. have reached an agreement that will provide live orchestral accompaniment for the dance company’s first three productions in the upcoming season, which begins Sept. 29 at the Ellie Caulkins Opera House.
According to DMA president Pete Vriesenga, pit orchestras ranging from 26 to 45 players will provide accompaniment for “Giselle”, “The Nutcracker” and “Dracula.” Previous orchestras numbered only 30, Vriesenga noted. Players’ payment for rehearsals and performances will also increase 3 percent to approximately $97.
Ballet executive director Lisa Snider called the agreement “terrific news,” adding that it ended a full year of talks with the DMA. Last season, a decision to eliminate live accompaniment for performances of “Cinderella” resulted in an increased commitment by both sides to avoid such cut-backs in the future, Vriesenga said. Snider added that Colorado Ballet is currently seeking sponsorship for a free student matinee of “Nutcracker,” at which the musicians have already agreed to play for free.
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