Longtime S-R music critic steps down

Sep 15, 2011

Source: Spokesman Review

One key name will be missing from the new Spokane Symphony season: Travis Rivers.

The Spokesman-Review’s veteran music critic has decided to step down after covering the region’s classical music scene for 32 years.

His learned and graceful reviews have educated and enlightened thousands of classical music fans. He was perfectly suited to the job, as a pianist, musicologist and longtime professor of music at Eastern Washington University (now retired).

Rivers and his signature bow tie will still be a common presence at symphony concerts and recitals, though he will no longer have to worry about making deadline. He will also have more freedom to travel the world with his wife, Sharlene.

We are currently auditioning for a new classical music critic. Watch for some new bylines on our symphony reviews in coming weeks.