Synaphaï: Gene Gaudette's Blog

While I was taking a break from typing up my review of Tuesday's superb Messiah at Avery Fisher Hall, I learned that Anthony Amato — founder of the little tiny New York City opera company that could, the Amato Opera — died yesterday at the age of 91.
UPDATE: WQXR has published an obituary.
UPDATE 2: Here's the NY Times "The Local" obituary.

I've recently heard from some colleagues who are very well connected to New York City's musical organizations rumors that the manager of one of the most prominent and revered had hired — and generously paid — his well-known brother as a "consultant" some years back without going through the proper channels. Yes, these are "only rumors" — but when they come from people in different business and social circles, one tends to put a bit more credence in them. Someone may well need to hire a spin doctor, and soon.