Two Concerts and a Resignation, by Lázaro Azar

The Orquesta Sinfónica del Estado de México (OSEM) recently presented a rendition of Tchaikovsky's "The Sleeping Beauty," Op. 66, in Toluca, drawing a dedicated audience despite inclement weather. The concert highlighted the orchestra's enduring appeal and its efforts to revitalize its sound.

Historically recognized as Mexico's finest orchestra, OSEM has experienced a decline attributed not only to the absence of its founder, Enrique Bátiz, but also to significant internal and external pressures. The article notes that "Kronos" (likely referring to pension or financial obligations) has impacted many long-serving musicians, some with over five decades of service. Furthermore, government budget cuts and stringent regulations have curtailed the orchestra's ability to engage leading international conductors and soloists, forcing a reliance on local talent.

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What is knowing how to compose: how much Luis Vital and Asaf Kolerstein, concertmaster and principal cello, respectively, shone with their solos.

Consequently, OSEM's schedule appears demanding, with performances reportedly taking place in various locations, including the AIFA (Felipe Ángeles International Airport). This over-scheduling, coupled with delayed payments for musicians, contributes to the challenges in attracting high-caliber artists.

However, the performance of "The Sleeping Beauty" offered moments of brilliance, particularly from soloists Luis Vital (concertmaster) and Asaf Kolerstein (principal cello). The new harpist, Merced Irene Reyes, also received praise for her exquisite introduction to the Adagio – Pas d’action. The integration of approximately fifteen talented young musicians has notably reinforced the string section, enhancing the orchestra's overall sonority and signaling a positive direction for OSEM.

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I also applaud the brilliant participation of Merced Irene Reyes, the new harpist (splendid, her introduction to the Adagio – Pas d’action) and the no less than fifteen talented young people who have arrived to reinforce the body and sonority of the strings.