Conference 2021 Reflections: Anwar Nasir

The in-depth conversations at Conference 2021 were guided by our five emcees, each focusing on critical question that framed the day’s sessions. Anwar Nasir, Chief Revenue & Advancement Officer of Omaha Symphony, lead the theme Concert Hall vs Digital.

By Anwar Nasir

The theme for this year’s conference is Embracing A Changed World. On Day 2, it became clear that we are still in a new place. Yes, we are gathering for the second time in an all-virtual setting.

However, there are still so many new things to learn from each other. I could feel the energy, enthusiasm, and excitement for our conversation. 

There is so much passion for continuing to find ways to expand our reach in our community and beyond.

The day featured a selection of voices from inside and outside of industry and orchestras large and small around the role that digital plays going forward. It was important to me to have a variety of thoughts and opinions. I wanted to ensure that we would not be subject to “this is the way orchestras have done it in the past” but to begin forging a path forward. 

What is clear to me is that when we think about digital, it is broader than live-streaming a concert.

Digital is community and engagement work intended to be engaged digitally. 

Digital is audience and patron development that happens via digital platforms. 

Digital is a method of delivering an artistic product intended to be experienced in a digital format.

Digital is a means to an end and not the end itself. 

We are looking and moving forward with determination and a new set of rules and tools.