Power of Inclusion – Foreword from Contributing Author Pratichi Shah

Classical music has always been a collective art form. What we experience on stages depends on a collective working together—musicians, conductors, staff, volunteers, educators, boards, and audiences. Our orchestras thrive as ensembles of individuals, bound by shared purpose and passion.

The same is true of the organizational life behind the music. Research and study of organizations show that inclusive, positive cultures allow people to thrive.¹  An orchestra’s investment in a cohesive approach towards inclusion across infrastructure and processes ensures that its values are not just spoken, but lived, and that authentic connection is created onstage and off.

This guide offers practical ways to weave those values into the fabric of an orchestra’s daily life—into rehearsal rooms, board meetings, internal infrastructure, and community engagement. Its purpose is not to prescribe a single path, but to help orchestras align their intentions with their actions, so that what is heard on stage reflects what is lived behind the scenes. Building inclusive, positive cultures is an ongoing journey—one that requires consistent intention, ongoing awareness, and real collaboration. You will find here not only ideas, but pragmatic approaches that link vision to practice, strategy to daily interactions, and individual contributions to organizational growth. I hope this guide encourages you and your colleagues to imagine what is possible for your orchestra and to take concrete, meaningful steps toward a culture where everyone feels respected, supported, and connected. Because when we build such cultures, we don’t just strengthen our organizations—we enrich the art form we all cherish.

Pratichi Shah
HR Strategist
Founder, Flourish Talent Management Solutions

1. “The Business Case for a High-Trust Culture,” Great Place to Work Institute, 2021; Emma Seppälä & Kim Cameron, “Proof That Positive Work Cultures Are More Productive,” Harvard Business Review, December 1, 2015.

Photo courtesy of Pratichi Shah