Orchestral Women

Re Mark Swed’s comment that Deborah Borda is “the first woman to have risen to the top of American orchestral life” (“Orchestrating a Big Change,” Oct. 6):

Let us not forget Helen Thompson, founder and former president of the American Symphony Orchestra League. She served as the highest administrator of the New York Philharmonic during the early ‘70s.

DONALD CUMMINGS

Sherman Oaks

According to Rich Wandel, the New York Philharmonic’s associate archivist, Thompson held the title of manager from 1970 to 1973. At the time, she was the top staff person for the orchestra. The title of executive director, held by Borda, was created in 1993.