Music Director Diversity
In This SectionIn 2025, 85.8% of music directors were male—despite an increase in the representation of women in these roles over the previous decade. That same year, 72.4% of music directors were white, with only minor fluctuations taking place in the representation of most communities of color during the same period.
2025 Snapshot
Why does the League track orchestra demographics? How was this data analyzed? What steps are orchestras taking to improve diversity of representation? Visit our Frequently Asked Questions.
2015-2025 Trends
From 2015-2025, women’s representation among music directors increased (from 9.2% to 14.2 %).
Why does the League track orchestra demographics? How was this data analyzed? What steps are orchestras taking to improve diversity of representation? Visit our Frequently Asked Questions.
More Resources
The following programs are working to increase the gender diversity of conductors in American orchestras.
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