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Maestro To Teach Former Hartford Symphony: Conductor In New Calling

Hartford Courant Editorial

June 20, 2011

When Hartford Symphony Orchestra conductor Edward Cumming turned to face the audience, he'd speak with the poise and natural ease of a seasoned teacher. As luck would have it, that is his new calling.

After a stellar nine-year career as the music director of the symphony, Mr. Cumming announced that he will stay in the area and join the faculty of The Hartt School at the University of Hartford. This looks like a match made in heaven.

When he came to Hartford, Mr. Cumming said he wouldn't mind chatting with people in the produce aisle at Stop & Shop if it would help promote the orchestra. He did that, countless times, and the conversations were as likely to be about baseball as Beethoven. He served as the emcee or moderator at numerous community events. He was, in short, one of the most accessible maestros in the country.

All of which argues persuasively for a fine next career at Hartt, one of Greater Hartford's great assets, a pillar of the vibrant arts community and a top regional selling point. Mr. Cumming will only make it stronger. One of his duties will be to lead the student orchestra; it will be fascinating to see what he does with it.