Being at near-maximum threshold stress so often loses its glamour pretty quickly. So, being literate enough to read the writing on the wall, I guess it's time to call it quits.

It's bittersweet. I had a sad lump in my throat as I read though the Utah Symphony's season schedule.

I fret about some of the locally produced series that I usually cover, such as the JazzSLC (formerly Jazz at the Sheraton) and Excellence in the Community concerts.

I'll miss having a soapbox when an issue I care about comes up.

And I can't imagine ever working for anybody as nice as Scott again. (Hey, I can't be accused of buttering up my boss because it's too late for that big promotion.)

And — worst of all — I'll have to start paying for concert tickets again!

I guess there are trade-offs for sanity.

It's been a good season, though, a wonderful season. I've always tried to speak both honestly and kindly, and I've always tried to keep my integrity as both critic and human.

I have no regrets (that I can think of) during my time here, but by the same token, I don't regret moving on. I expect that the next season — while less public — will have its own unique ups and downs.

Meanwhile, a few CD reviews I've already written may run after my last day at work (trying to head off confusion, here).

Thanks to all of you who have written in; I've loved hearing from you.

And — goodbye.

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E-mail: rcline@desnews.com