Billboard (03/22/21)

The Boston Symphony Orchestra (BSO) announced that its 2021 outdoor season at Tanglewood in western Massachusetts will mark its return to live concerts from July 9 to Aug. 16. "My hope is that in this moment, we will discover together an even deeper purpose and meaning for music in our lives — as it is sure to fill our hearts and renew our spirits," said BSO music director Andris Nelsons. The BSO also said contactless ticketing, rigorous cleaning protocols, mask-wearing and social distancing will be in effect, while the festival will only run for about half of its usual 12-week season. All performances will be shortened to 80 minutes or less with no intermissions. BSO President and CEO Mark Volpe acknowledged that the pandemic has cost musicians and fans alike, calling them "a community of like-minded souls yearning for the power of music in their lives again." "My hope lies with music's ability to heal and inspire us, helping to move and sustain us through the challenging times of our lives," Nelsons declared.

Read the full story from Billboard.