Sacramento Opera, Philharmonic explore possible merger

The leaders of the Sacramento Opera and Sacramento Philharmonic are discussing a merger as a way to secure their futures — and potentially grow — despite a troubled economy.

Like other organizations that have gone down this road, they are learning there are pitfalls as well as benefits. Marc Scorca has seen it all in his years as president of Opera America.

"There are a number of factors to consider, like the issue of loyalty to an art form among donors," Scorca said. "Blending the two can be less appealing to everyone than the individual identity over which they are passionate."