After previously rejecting a $375,000 bailout for Orchestra London late last year, city council is now poised to consider reviving the orchestra to the tune of $300,000.
Next week, a city committee will consider a recommendation to give the musicians a cash infusion through the London Arts Council, and involve the players in developing ways to keep professional classical music alive in London.
Under the proposal, half of the money would go directly to the musicians, to keep them in the city. The other half would be spent to develop a business case to keep the orchestra financially sustainable. The proposal goes before the Strategic Priorities and Policy Committee on Monday at 4pm.
In December 2014, city council rejected a request for $375,000 to fund bankruptcy proceedings, settle a bill for back taxes and pay musicians, who went without any compensation following show cancellations. The orchestra was operating with a $932,758 debt. Management blamed the inability to secure a pledge donation of $350,000 for the majority of its financial woes.
