Music: National Emergency

Mexico has two top conductors. They do not like each other much. Conductor Carlos Chávez of the National Symphony Orchestra has referred (in print) to José Yves Limantour as a “calumniator, howler, fool, evil person . . . and despicable.” Limantour of the Jalapa Symphony Orchestra is equally outspoken about Chávez.

Two weeks ago Chávez, who is head of the government’s Institute of Fine Arts and the nearest thing to a government music boss, started rehearsals for a special “little” opera season. His foes said he was doing it to boost his own ego; he was trying to undermine the regular opera season ; whatever he did would be bad. Then, suddenly, Chávez’ orchestra struck.

Would Mexico City get no “little” opera? Even Chávez’ foes were horrified. Conductor Limantour phoned Chávez. “Maestro,” he said, “I won’t take back one thing I’ve said about you. But this is a national emergency. I give you my orchestra.” Snapped Don Carlos: “You remain everything I’ve ever said you are. But I accept.”

Last week, Chávez’ opera season opened on schedule. Patriotism had conquered partisanship.