Music Critique Set the Wrong Tone

I am absolutely baffled after reading Martin Bernheimer’s mean-spirited critique of the Glendale Symphony’s recent concert (“Glendale Opens Brave New Era, a Shaky ‘Season to Celebrate,’ ” Oct. 23).

Mr. Bernheimer’s choice of words and phrases like “Wince” and “the season, if one can call it that,” is followed by what looks to be his personal antagonism toward Keith Clark using descriptions “the would-be flashy Clark” and “Southern California has not heard much from or about him in six years since he was yanked--with more wisdom than kindness--from the helm of his Pacific Symphony.”

Continuing his tirade, Bernheimer uses the terms “acoustic horrors; slick schlock that passes as light entertainment; over-parted chorus and gaggle of bargain-basement soloists; willful flight of aesthetic barbarism.” This continued on and on throughout the balance of his article, which finally stated, “Never has the ‘Ode to Joy’ been so joyless.”

And never has a critic been so joyless. So sad, Martin, that your critique was not professional enough to have included, perhaps, some positive technical comments that would help all of us, along with Glendale’s sincere professionals, to promote music that edifies and adds to the culture. This kind of vitriol adds nothing. Maybe you should celebrate by turning your attention to some detail of rap or acid rock to further slake your urge.

CHUCK KOHLENBERGER

Fullerton