Posted on August 21, 2012

Atlanta Symphony Rejects Two High School Choruses Because They’re Not ‘Racially Diverse Enough’

Becket Adams, The Blaze, August 18, 2012

Two high school choruses will not be performing with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra (ASO) this year because they’re not “racially-diverse enough,” Fox News reports.

Apparently, it’s more important that you look like you just came from the set of “Glee” than it is to, you know, have actual talent.

“This year, the schools were informed by symphony officials that their choruses are not diverse enough, and that the symphony would be inviting a third, more diverse chorus [emphasis added],” said Cobb County Schools spokesman Jay Dillon.

Unsurprisingly, some Marietta, Ga., residents believe the symphony’s decision to turn away both Walton and Lassiter High School is discriminatory.

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Atlanta Symphony Orchestra President Stanley Romanstein argues that it’s one of the goals of the organization to “reflect the diversity of Atlanta,” adding that he is surprised at the outcry.

“It’s an interesting misunderstanding,” he said.

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Still, the fact that the symphony based its decision on physical appearance rather than merit has rubbed more than a few people the wrong way.

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But Romanstein stands by the ASO’s decision.

“There are at least 12 very talented high school choirs in Atlanta,” Romanstein said. “We gave Lassiter and Walton choirs an opportunity to perform for four consecutive years, and they were marvelous. We think it’s time to give other Atlanta high school choirs, who are very skilled and deserving, their chance to perform with the ASO as well.”

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