This episode of Nonprofit Report features leaders from American symphony orchestras as they discuss how orchestras are evolving to remain vital, inclusive, and responsive to contemporary audiences and communities.
Guests:
C. Barker, Executive Director, Delaware Symphony Orchestra
Jonathan Parrish, Executive Director, The Maryland Symphony Orchestra
Sarah Weber, Executive Director, Association of California Symphony Orchestras
Steve Collins, Executive Director, Hartford Symphony Orchestra
Interview by: Mark Oppenheim
Key Points:
- Orchestras must listen deeply to their communities to remain relevant and accessible.
- Orchestras are redefining their roles as cultural and civic institutions essential to community well-being.
- Innovative program models include blending Beethoven with living composers and pop or multimedia works.
- Musicians and staff are being empowered to co-lead creative and inclusive programming initiatives.
- Hiring practices and leadership structures are being reassessed to reflect diverse skills and values.
- Messiness, experimentation, and imperfection are embraced as necessary paths to innovation.
Other Points on Symphony Orchestras:
Symphony orchestras are undergoing a cultural reckoning, shifting from gatekeepers of tradition to partners in the community. Leaders agree that relevance now hinges on humility, listening, and the willingness to change.
This change extends to programming, venue use, and even language—demystifying “opus numbers” and rethinking how concerts are described and delivered. It’s not about discarding tradition but expanding the definition of excellence.
Orchestras are also embracing diverse artistic voices and formats, from movie scores to hip-hop collaborations. Classical music becomes one of many languages, all equal in the mission to move, inspire, and include. Across the board, the call is clear: open the doors, diversify leadership, and treat musicians as creators. By doing so, orchestras can reclaim their place as engines of civic connection and emotional resonance.