2026
feb
A Talk By Norman Lebrecht
Friday, February 6, 2026 at 6:30PM
Godrej Dance Theatre
Why We Need Orchestras
And how an orchestra defines a city
What is an orchestra? Is it just a payroll for musicians to perform western masterpieces, or does it serve a larger purpose as an image bearer for a city or a country? China, half a century ago, had no orchestras. Today it has 100, and rising.
What is it the Chinese know that we don't?
The history of the symphony orchestra goes back less than two centuries. In this groundbreaking talk, international author Norman Lebrecht explores the mysteries of the organism and shows how an orchestra can remake a broken city and enrich an ambitious nation.
Renowned music critic and author Norman Lebrecht has shaped classical music discourse through landmark books such as The Maestro Myth and Maestros, Masterpieces and Madness. He also runs the influential website The Slipped Disc, offering incisive commentary, breaking news, and an unflinching look at the triumphs and scandals of the music world.
And how an orchestra defines a city
What is an orchestra? Is it just a payroll for musicians to perform western masterpieces, or does it serve a larger purpose as an image bearer for a city or a country? China, half a century ago, had no orchestras. Today it has 100, and rising.
What is it the Chinese know that we don't?
The history of the symphony orchestra goes back less than two centuries. In this groundbreaking talk, international author Norman Lebrecht explores the mysteries of the organism and shows how an orchestra can remake a broken city and enrich an ambitious nation.
Renowned music critic and author Norman Lebrecht has shaped classical music discourse through landmark books such as The Maestro Myth and Maestros, Masterpieces and Madness. He also runs the influential website The Slipped Disc, offering incisive commentary, breaking news, and an unflinching look at the triumphs and scandals of the music world.
