Schedule
HostsWays to Give
HomePlaylistSchedule
HostsEventsOn DemandOur StoryOur TeamWays to Give Become a Sponsor
How to ListenVisit Help CenterContact Us

Find Us on Social Media

Logo image

Download Our Mobile App

google play icon

About

HomePlaylistSchedule
HostsOn DemandOur StoryOur Team

Community

EventsWays to Give Become a SponsorPressDiversity StatementCareersKUSC EEO ReportKDFC EEO ReportDigital Accessibility

Help

How to ListenVisit Help CenterContact Us

Find Us on Social Media

Sweepstakes RulesKUSC Local Public FilesKDFC Local Public FilesPrivacy PolicyCode of Integrity

©2026 Classical California

articles / Pop Culture

Stash the Stilettos

Pop Culture

Why are some symphony organizations asking auditioning musicians to go barefoot? In the interest of “blind” auditions, musicians are asked to perform behind a curtain or screen of some kind.  That way, the panel of judges can listen to a performance unaware of the race, gender, or age of a candidate. Well, some orchestras have realized that if one hears the clickety-clackety of high heels as the musician finds his/her place behind the screen, chances are they’re about to hear a female musician. So, boys and girls, no shoes please! Read more here.

Pop Culture
Written by:
Dianne Nicolini
Dianne Nicolini
Published on 03.22.2017
Loading...

MORE LIKE THIS

The Ophi-What?

The Ophi-What?

Explore the history of the ophicleide, a 19th-century instrument used in orchestras and military bands, and its cultural significance in music and clergy.

05/11/2018
Ping Pong on the Concert Stage

Ping Pong on the Concert Stage

Explore the inspiration behind composer Andy Akiho's piece, Ricochet, derived from his visit to Spin, a trendy Ping-Pong club in New York City.

05/11/2018
The Olympic Theme Explained

The Olympic Theme Explained

Explore the history and structure of the NBC Olympic Theme, composed by John Williams for the 1984 LA Olympics, and discover a unique rendition of this iconic tune.

02/15/2018
The Ophi-What?

The Ophi-What?

Explore the history of the ophicleide, a 19th-century instrument used in orchestras and military bands, famously included in works by Berlioz, Mendelssohn, Verdi, and Wagner.

11/16/2017
Cocktails with the Coloratura?

Cocktails with the Coloratura?

San Francisco Opera tests a new policy allowing drinks in the hall, using compostable cups. This move, common in England, sparks debate on opera etiquette and culture.

06/21/2017
“The Producers” Meets the Met!

“The Producers” Meets the Met!

Broadway producer Roland Scahill is accused of defrauding investors of $165,000 for a non-existent play about opera star Kathleen Battle and actress Lupita Nyong’o.

11/18/2016