Choking on the Pit?

Odds: 40 to 1. Musicians' favorite after Hans Graf, but lack of a proven track record on the podium diminishes his chances.

Scratched before post time:

Paavo Järvi -- considered by the search committee until he was named music director of the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, a post he'll officially assume in September 2001.

Robert Spano -- considered a leading candidate until he was named music director of the Atlanta Symphony last February. He assumes the directorship in September 2001.