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For many years classical music organizations have struggled with technology. Some traditional musicians question technology's role in classical music, thinking it could ruin the authenticity of the music. Some see it as a way to enhance the classical music experience. Recently, Newsweek reported that digital music downloads have increased the sale of classical music recordings. But it seems that now more than ever musicians are finding creative ways to present their music through technology. On September 14, the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic will perform a concert in Second Life -- literally, a step into a new dimension for classical music.

Carnegie Mellon University's School of Music has embraced technology while walking the fine line to respect the traditional practices of music training and performance. The school was the first conservatory school of music in the country to webcast its live concerts and recitals. This academic year the school can now present these concerts in high-definition video. Now you can view concerts and recitals on a computer with the clarity and quality of television, reminding viewers how classical music can be a spectacular live experience. It may just be that classical music fans don't have to choose between tradition and technology.

Eric Sloss