Music

Maestro Stops Symphony Because Of Ringing Cellphone

Published

15 years ago

January 12, 2012

While many movie goers hate people that use cellphones in theaters, I see this being much more of a truth with horror movie fans. The darkness of the theater isn’t just to make the movie easier to see, it’s an extension of the film and grants us the opportunity to let us believe that something “evil” might be lurking behind us. Also, the sound in a horror movie is integral to providing scares. So when a ringtone goes off, to say that we’re sucked out of the movie is an understatement. It’s one of the biggest pet peeves I have and usually why I go to the theaters at 2pm. That way I can avoid large crowds and potential cellphone users.

The same thing can be said when one attends a symphony. Every subtle nuance of the orchestra is incredibly important to the overall piece and any distraction can ruin the experience. The Wall Street Journal reports that such was the case at the Lincoln Center’s Avery Fisher Hall when an attendant’s cellphone began chirping that incredibly annoying ‘Marimba‘ ringtone during a performance of Gustav Mahler‘s 9th Symphony. If it rang once, then okay, turn it off and you’re a bit of a dick, but whatever. But no, this cellphone kept ringing for minutes. Finally, NY Philharmonic conductor Alan Gilbert stopped the entire performance and told the man to turn it off. Even the audience got in on it with jeers and applause. After the cellphone was finally silenced, Gilbert apologized to the audience, gave the orchestra a previous cue, and finished the piece.

Having been to several such concerts, the idea that this man didn’t silence his cellphone before the piece begun is mind boggling. It’s the simplest of tasks and this guy couldn’t do it? Sorry pal, you have no right to be at such an event.

Below is the first of six parts if you want to give it a listen. I highly recommend it as there are moments of absolute beauty but also some very sinister, dark passages.

Related Topics:9th Symphony Alan Gilbert Good for him!Gustav Mahler New York Philharmonic

JonathanBarkan

Managing editor/music guy/social media fella of Bloody-Disgusting

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Music

‘I Love My Robot’ – Sheri Moon Zombie Releases First Music Video, Directed by Rob Zombie

Published

1 day ago

July 27, 2026

John Squires

After appearing in Rob Zombie’s music videos and movies over the years, Sheri Moon Zombie (The Devil’s Rejects) has now released her own debut single and music video, I Love My Robot. The video, which you can watch below, was directed by husband Rob Zombie.

The track playfully takes a jab at the use of Generative AI in the arts.

The official press release details, “Helmed by acclaimed producer Zeuss and accompanied by a video directed by Rob Zombie, the track blends retro sci-fi, playful camp, and infectious hooks into an irresistibly offbeat anthem that is unmistakably Sheri.

“Tongue-in-cheek and surprisingly timely, I Love My Robot offers a witty take on life in an increasingly algorithm-driven world. Beneath its infectious energy and B-movie charm, the song celebrates imagination, individuality, and the simple joy of thinking for yourself.

“It’s a playful reminder that while technology may make life easier, nothing can replace genuine creativity or human connection.”

A limited edition picture disc vinyl featuring “I Love My Robot” on Side A and Rob Zombie’s “Sir Lord Acid Wolfman” on Side B is now available for pre-order. Only 600 copies are being released worldwide, and it’ll be available on October 30, 2026 via Nuclear Blast Records.

Pre-order your copy now and listen to I Love My Robot on all your favorite platforms.