Syracuse University is quietly leading an effort to create a new classical ensemble in the city in the wake of the Syracuse Symphony Orchestra’s bankruptcy, according to The Post-Standard.

While university leaders have not publicly discussed the matter, Joanie Mahoney, county executive of Onondaga County, in New York, said the institution has committed resources and senior staff members to building a new symphony. “I’m very optimistic because of the people that are involved,” Ms. Mahoney said.

Musicians with the now-defunct Syracuse Symphony Orchestra, many of whom are leaving town to seek work in other cities, said they were not aware of the university-led effort. The 50-year-old organization, facing more than $5-million in debt and pension liabilities, laid off virtually all staff members and filed for bankruptcy in April.

In other arts news, Ballet San Jose plans to drop the first half of its forthcoming season amid budget uncertainty, the San Jose Mercury-News says.

The company, which reported a $1-million budget shortfall last year and has yet to agree on a new contract with its dancers, is unlikely to stage any fall performances and will probably open the season with “The Nutcracker” in December, Stephanie Ziesel, its executive director, said.