Abstract

CSJ-11-0039.0 This case turns to the field of art criticism, particularly music criticism, to raise for discussion the proper role for a critic. It looks at the experience of the Cleveland Plain Dealer and its longtime music critic, Donald Rosenberg. In 2007, the Cleveland Orchestra charged that Rosenberg consistently found fault with Conductor Franz Welser-Möst’s performances in what amounted to ad hominem attacks. By contrast, the orchestra claimed that Rosenberg had been too close to Welser-Möst’s predecessor. Editor Susan Goldberg had a longstanding respect for critics and their editorial independence, but the accusations against Rosenberg had accumulated in disturbing fashion. By early 2008, Rosenberg felt she had to make some changes to his assignment—but what?

Faculty can use this case for students to examine the role of a critic. Is there such a thing as too critical? What are the proper skills for a critic? Must she be a practitioner of the art she covers, or is it enough to be knowledgeable? What about journalism training? What are the peculiar tensions for someone who critiques live performances, as opposed to static presentations? What about the task of reviewing new compositions, in contrast to old chestnuts? What constitutes a proper relationship to the artists one covers? Students will come to see how challenging it is to be a critic, but also how difficult it can be for editors to manage critics in the newsroom.

This case can be used in a class on performing arts criticism; local media; or editorial management.