"Houston, we have a problem."

Yeah, I know. Kind of an obvious title for a Houston-related post by someone who is about to be critical.

But it's true. We do have a problem.

The Houston Symphony, "my" orchestra, is not healthy. 

It hasn't been in quite a long time now.

15 years ago, the seats were full, and we all sat on the edges of those seats anticipating that our breath might be taken away. 

Something unique and world class might happen that very night.

No longer. 

And it breaks my heart.

Please, don't misunderstand me or the blog that is to come. I'm not being critical out of ill-will or spite hatred. Quite the opposite.

I am passionate about music--specifically orchestral music and my local orchestra, the Houston Symphony.  It is one of the main things that reminds me that I'm human and that there's more to human life than "food and raiment."

I travel to other cities and plan vacations around which orchestras are performing pieces I love. I've been subscribing and otherwise attending Houston Symphony concerts for almost 20 years. And before that, as a young person, I trained for and played in orchestras. I learned to read music at the same time I learned to read words. I've always known and loved music. This was to be my life.

I love this stuff. No question.

But that's why it hurts so much when the orchestra is not thriving.

There is no single cause, nor is there a simplistic solution. All orchestras wax and wane. But the Houston Symphony has a chance to be what it was--and more.

It certainly has the musicians to make it happen. But will it happen?

Keep watching this space as we find out together.

• You'll see profiles of guest conductors and candidates to become our next music director. 
• You'll see concert previews of repertoire the orchestra will be performing. 
• You'll see concert reviews after the performances.
• And hopefully, you'll see discussion about what makes an orchestra or a music director truly great.