In my opinion, we can stop this continuing destruction of orchestras:
The musicians union has to EDUCATE with live demos. THIS is the sound of a full string section. THIS is the sound of that same phrase played on a synth. Which is worth your money? https://www.broadwayworld.com/westend/article/THE-PHANTOM-OF-THE-OPERA-Orchestra-Will-Be-Reduced-Upon-Reopening-in-the-West-End-20210412?fbclid=IwAR1VFXBwY43fQGh_-OVWTATJDUKAGpAYy_Zh9zp3HuktF-VrjVsUDUEgA3g

2. Critics need to call out shows that have tiny bands. Almost EVERY revival I've seen on Broadway has reduced the orchestra. And they sound awful and thin. Can the critics not hear the horrific difference? If so, CALL IT OUT! If not, don't be a critic.

3. Bway/West End are supposed to be the TOP places for musical theater. Why are regional theaters using full orchestras and not Broadway?

4. Audiences need to make producers know they want a BIG orchestra. Write letters! "I'm outraged you're charging so much for tickets to a show with a so-called orchestra smaller than my community theater." Write to your local papers as well.

6. There is an excuse that large orchestras cost money. If you would see a breakdown of what a Broadway/West End show costs, I don't think you would see a giant price tag on a good-sized orchestra. There is MUCH money being spent elsewhere. Remember: a musical is about the MUSIC.

7. And do not give me the myth that composers want small bands for their shows. That is a rare instance in very specific shows. The majority of musicals only benefit from a full orchestra.
We must not give up! We must tell producers we want the sound of a FULL ORCHESTRA!

Listen to the brilliance of a FULL ORCHESTRA!

#Company #JonathanTunick #Phantom