^^Peaks and valley Kuaizi, classical has lasted centuries had numerous ups and downs and is still with us. Although the last century it's more about movie soundtracks for composers than the glory days of the great symphonies etc.
Classical will survive, it will rise and fall but never die. I firmly believe Beethoven and the other greats music will last indefinitely.
Oh classical will no doubt survive. But in America? Who knows... Americans just have a different attitude about work and the arts, and its coming through in the orchestras.
When I heard Berlin when they came through Chicago, it was mind blowing. It was hands down the best performance I have EVER heard. It brought me to tears it was so good. And to think, my sister was in Berlin a few weeks ago and told me they have a handful of orchestras for one city (like 5 or 6?), and they are all amazing. Yet here, the major cities (except for a few, Chicago included) are struggling to support one orchestra! (and the minor orchestras in the suburbs are pretty much garbage)
To me its just a different culture and dynamic here in the states - one that doesn't really give a crap about the "music to put you to sleep." Because its more than 3 minutes long and actually requires thought and an attention span.
Sorry for the rant, I am extra grumpy these past few days lol
Anyways, if anyone is interested in hearing the best of the best, check out this site. I believe this was the most intelligent thing an orchestra has done to welcome in the new age of technology and generating revenue from all over the globe:
The Berliner Philharmoniker's Digital Concert Hall
