Music is for enjoyment, and one of the greatest pieces of advice my former-pro guitarist mentor said was "Audiences don't like it when you play over their head."

I'm all for expanding the universe of good tunes that orchestras can play, especially if that keeps orchestra members able to make money and continue their art. There's a small part of me that can see the perspective of the purist, but it reminds me too much of "formal musical study" of the guitar, which is, essentially, playing a lot of classical stuff that most people aren't interested in hearing! The jazz guys and gals maybe have a bit more approachability, but again, the peak of the genre is very complex and out of the usual scope of "listening for pleasure."

I haven't been to one of these (yet) but I'd surely like the chance to experience it. Also, somewhat relevant, the last time I checked, the "Trans Siberian Orchestra" holiday performances were hanging in and probably making some good money! I know they got my cash one year.

Times change, tastes change.