Roch. orchestra facing $700K deficit

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (AP) - The Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, started by Kodak founder George Eastman 90 years ago, is facing an operating deficit that could exceed $700,000.

The Rochester Democrat and Chronicle reports ( http://on.rocne.ws/NYSUbc ) that the shortfall is driven by dwindling donations and grants, rising musician wages, and lingering effects of the recession.

Leaders of the orchestra are brainstorming ways to raise money and have changed some music so fewer musicians and less rehearsal time will be needed.

The Philharmonic is one of the city's most important arts organizations. Its national reputation was recently confirmed by a 2014 engagement to play at Manhattan's Carnegie Hall.

The orchestra's CEO, Charles Owens, has clashed with music director Arild Remmereit over artistic and administrative priorities since the Norwegian conductor arrived a year ago.