“Music criticism will never return to what it used to be.” - Donald Rosenberg

Living the Classical Life: Episode 65

American music critic, author, and musician Donald Rosenberg started out as a horn player, trained at Mannes and Yale. He quickly became known for his insightful and accessible music reviews, as well as his book “The Cleveland Orchestra Story.” His 2008 dismissal from his position as principal classical music critic of the Plain Dealer, reportedly for his criticism of the conductor of the Cleveland Orchestra, created a firestorm of controversy in the international musical community.

[whoisthispianist]

Delightful stuff. As always, Zsolt asks the most difficult questions. Donald defends himself and his profession with grace. Great show. Thanks and much love from SHB.

[atticproject]

Excellent interview and wonderful stories! Music criticism is part of music appreciation which is a necessary training for every music student.

[zenoky]

Wonderful interview. Donald Rosenberg is a knowledgeable, thoughtful, articulate musician and his comments about music criticism and the function of a critic are fascinating. Very interesting and enlightening.

[markmiller]

Have you ever thought about interviewing David Hurwitz?

[reidwhitton]

Thank you! I ordered a copy of Mr. Rosenberg's book.

[susmateja]

Fun fact - Margaret Truman sounds much better than most of today's sopranos! In her recording there are some wonderful notes.

[tfpp]

This interview has a weird vibe. Rosenberg strikes me as defensive in this exchange, not sure why. Also, the concept of music criticism is an odd one. A critic - by definition - is someone who "criticizes".

[Twentythousandlps]

Why does everyone mispronounce the name of Szell? It's sell, not zell.

[jahi]

Wow, this host is really laying in heavy questions to Rosenberg... Seems to me like the host is acting like he knows more about music than Rosenberg. It's all good though, Rosenberg is hitting him back with really thought out answers and with confident ease. I really love these series, thank you Peter Hobbs!

[sureshbagul]

i am 15 trying to peruse my passion for journalism and music so i wonder could i still work in there even after 20 years?

[ArashAhmadiGuitar]

Interesting interview, yet so many questions remained unasked.

[mistywalters]

Conductor the worser-most is terrible!