“Mr. Stern may hold his violin in his lap during takeoffs and landings…”
Air travel has come a long way since 1968, but in 47 years not everything has progressed for the better!
We came across some wonderful vintage correspondence detailing Isaac Stern’s own struggles with airline regulations. In preparation for a 1968 tour, Mr. Stern’s lawyer sent (typed) letters to each airline he would be flying with to ensure he could have his violin on his lap during take off and landing. Imagine trying that today! Below are just two of these many letters.
And isn’t it interesting though that so many major airlines offer corporate support and sponsorship to orchestras yet stand in their way when it comes to doing their job? Travel with instruments has never been easy, but let’s hope it doesn’t go from unpleasant to impossible!
