Design for Bowl

Preservationists rightly strive to keep the 21st century from obliterating the 20th century, and we as a society are enriched by their efforts. Alas, even the most ardent preservationists cannot stop the deteriorating effects of time, and our beloved Hollywood Bowl band shell is clearly no longer capable of serving us as its designers originally intended.

As a bowl subscriber for decades, I have long felt the shell’s primary goals--acoustic and visual--have sadly suffered, but I would have loudly opposed any plan that discarded the original design for something more contemporary. I am grateful that the Philharmonic and the county have found a solution that so beautifully and respectfully honors the past.

PHIL ALDEN ROBINSON

Los Angeles