A Post-Election Message from Our CEO and President, Simon Woods

November 7, 2024

Dear Friends: 

Across the country, individuals and organizations are processing the outcome of another deeply polarizing election and looking for meaning and guidance for the times ahead. We know that our members are experiencing a broad range of emotions, from hope and relief to anxiety and fear. Our role here at the League is to care for and support everyone in the orchestra community, work together for the health of orchestras, and advocate for the power of the arts.

As we consider the implications for the field and for our work, we are grounded in the values of humanity and inclusion that endure beyond any single election cycle. We remain deeply committed to amplifying the richness of difference, affirming the role orchestras play in their communities, working for those who are marginalized, and empowering music to speak when words fail.

After every election—presidential and mid-term—we send a message to members as part of our year-round advocacy to help the field in relationship building, which is a vital complement to the ongoing work of our policy team. As we move forward with this work, it’s timely to remind ourselves of the critical importance of participating in civic dialogue and policy. We suggest a few priorities for your consideration:

• As policy leaders take office at all levels of government, be among the first to make contact and introduce your orchestra’s work to newly elected or re-elected officials.
• Reach out to the partners and collaborators in your community and your state who can maximize efforts for positive change.
• Mobilize shared action on the policy issues that will impact your orchestra and community.
• Build and sustain essential bipartisan support.

At the federal level, the League will, as always, provide a full update on the shape of the new House and Senate as it emerges, as well as a calendar of actions to help you engage with policy leaders on urgent issues ahead. In the meantime, the following resources can help support your orchestra as you continue to serve communities and take action on the policy and civic issues that are shaped at the local, state, and national levels.

Playing Your Part: An Orchestra’s Guide to Public Policy Advocacy 
Identifying State and Local Advocacy Partners
Key Federal Policy Issues at a Glance
League Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Resources

All of us at the League thank you for your continued dedication to orchestras, and to the role music plays in expressing our shared humanity.  

With best wishes, 

Simon Woods
President and CEO
League of American Orchestras