Orchestra needs support, not criticism for decision

As an ardent supporter of the Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra, I was not surprised to see the passion in recent letters to the editor regarding the decision not to renew Maestra Mary Green's contract. I was, however, saddened at the cutting nature of the criticism, extending even to personal insult.

All subscribers, donors and musicians received an electronic letter from the chairman of the board of directors explaining the situation to the degree appropriate. It closed with an invitation to contact the board for more information.

Rather than invective fueled by rumors and incomplete information, what our symphony needs most is all of its fans' encouragement and support.

In case you hadn't noticed, orchestras all over the country -- in communities much larger than ours -- are folding because of unfavorable finances. Weathering the recession is one thing; surviving the inexorable change in U.S. demographics is quite another.

It's difficult for me to imagine the Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra podium without Maestra Green. Her contributions are innumerable. Let's all pull together to get our orchestra through the tough times and be open to the changes that will come.

Julie H. Williams

Hilton Head Island