Madam, - May I respond to a few myths as put forward by Kevin Woods (January 23rd)? As a long-standing pro of 32 years, I can assure him that journalists such as Norman Lebrecht do not have the definitive insights into orchestral life.
A good conductor is a joy to behold for any musician. In my time I have had the opportunity to work with some of the greats of the business: Haitink, Tennstedt, Barenboim, Giulini, Previn, etc. These men could lift an orchestra off the ground by their dynamism, attention to detail, and belief in what they were doing for the music, as opposed to "to the music".
Yes, an orchestra can play without a conductor, but there is no direction, no sense of purpose and you end up with a very unruly mess which is to no one's advantage.
A conductor is a motivator; think of Jack Charlton when he took on the Ireland team, and you have a fair analogy.
As regards Mr Woods's mention of frauds, an orchestra can spot one from a great distance, and they do not get a second chance. Indeed, the terror visible in many new conductors can be a sight to behold!
I agree that the NSO's principal conductor is a very fine exponent of his craft, but may I suggest that Mr Woods gets to know the new principal conductor of the RTÉ Concert Orchestra, Laurent Wagner, who was described by Martin Adams of The Irish Times as the best thing to happen to Irish classical music in 2003. Come to one of his concerts and you will see motivation! - Yours, etc.,
MICHAEL HEALY, Newtownpark Avenue, Blackrock, Co Dublin.