In the face of global calls for racial justice, orchestras around the world have responded by seeking to understand the breadth and depth of systemic racial inequity. As we continue this journey, we ask ourselves, “What does it mean to move forward as an organization?”
Orchestras increasingly re-examined the ways we engage with our audiences and connect with our communities. What lessons have we learned that will help orchestras thrive post-pandemic? This panel conversation reflected a cross section of departments and budget sizes to share strategies, insights, and actionable ways that orchestras can authentically engage with communities to increase access, deepen trust, and develop enduring sustainability.
As Vice President of Social Impact at the Kennedy Center, Marc Bamuthi Joseph successfully moved the organization from an engagement model to an equity model as the institution seeks to be in better compliance with an anti-racist agenda. During these remarks, he layed out a blueprint for the classical field that lifted its gaze beyond the horizon of equity, diversity, and inclusion work to consider a focus on systemic solidarity or structural allyship instead.
The pandemic has created major shifts in how people engage with orchestras and make attendance decisions for years to come. From implementing new safety measures onsite to exploring new methods of engaging with audiences online, nearly every aspect of orchestral operations has been impacted by the coronavirus. But one thing has stayed the same: connection—to our audiences, to our communities, and to one another—is critical.
In this session we examined the role technology played during the pandemic and will continue to play as orchestras return to the concert stage.
World-renowned musician, composer, and bandleader Wynton Marsalis kicked off the Conference on Monday, June 7 in an interview by League President and CEO Simon Woods.
This new Guide makes the case for the vital importance of equity, diversity, and inclusion at orchestras—from the board perspective. The authors, board members themselves, discuss the urgency of this work and offer practical advice, contextual information, and strategies for boards and orchestras to become truly representative of the communities they serve.
Since the program launched in 2019, the League of American Orchestras has awarded grants to 49 U.S. orchestras to help strengthen understanding of equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) and transform organizational culture.
In 2019, Janet Chen was named the first ever Chief Executive Officer of ProMusica, a chamber orchestra in Columbus, Ohio and a League member. We asked her a few questions about her career, which has seen her as a performing musician, arts administrator, and music educator.
The adventurous and dazzling violinist Jennifer Koh performed and gave remarks at the 2018 Conference Luncheon.