Cincinnati Symphony marches in...

to help the Lakota school band programs. What did you think of that story? Do you think the CSO should step up its regional presence?

In recent decades, the orchestra has cut back its regional concerts, which included "Area Artist" concerts throughout Ohio, as well as the closer-in Pops in Parks concerts with Erich Kunzel. But Wednesday at Music Hall, Paavo Järvi told me he would like to launch regional touring again. He says the idea for the orchestra to play in West Chester came from staff members.

"I have occasionally asked why we are not doing more things in Kentucky, for example, or even things an hour away, or one-and-a half hours away. Because it could increase our visibility, but also it would be good to do. I know the orchestra used to do those things," he said.

"We need to identify in my view, a kind of regional tour route. I would prefer to go to places that have good venues. Recently there have been a surge of good venues being built here, which could host a guest artist series. To us, it's a question of funding. Because I think we are interesting and willing to go out to more remote areas, but it's a question of having the proper funding for it.

"We are complaining often about not having more contact with students in schools. Music departments are ceasing to exist in most schools, so we need to show that we’re actually doing something about it," he said.

By the way, the CSO season opening concert is tonight in Music Hall. Click here for a preview with Awadagin Pratt. And check the symphony's Web site, with the link to your right of this page.