The League of American Orchestras Announces 77th National Conference

The League of American Orchestras has collaborated with the Los Angeles Philharmonic and the Association of California Symphony Orchestras to launch its 77th National Conference. 

Held online in the past few years due to COVID-19 restrictions, the National Conference returns in person this June and will include guest speakers such as Thomas Wilkins, John Williams, and Gustavo Dudamel, among many others.

Around 1,000 orchestra administrators, musicians, board members, and volunteers will discuss and examine the theme of this year’s conference, “Forward Together.”

Some topics to be covered at venues across California include artistic planning; revenue generation; audience development; environmental sustainability; equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI); as well as workforce development and retention.

This year’s conference has been designed so that all general and elective sessions are relevant for a wide range of orchestra roles and budget sizes. Additionally, the time available for constituency meetings has been extended and live music will also be performed throughout the conference.

“After three long years, the orchestra field is craving connection and fellowship,” said Simon Woods, the League’s President and CEO in the press release. “The incredible response to this Conference is an indication of just how much people want to come back together for the critical conversations, learning, and mutual support that occur when we meet in person.”

“We are thrilled to welcome our colleagues from across the country back to Los Angeles, 16 years since the LA Phil last hosted the conference,” added Chad Smith, CEO of the LA Phil Association. “Much has changed since then, and it will be quite special to connect with one another and share the ideas and themes most resonant in our world today.”

For the National Conference’s full schedule, click here. To attend the event, register here. 

For students attending the event, OrchestraCareers.com is partnering with the League to create custom content for student members, covering these topics such as how an orchestra works, building a strong network, applying to jobs, and why your vision matters.

Founded in 1942, The League of American Orchestras is an organization supporting America’s orchestras. With a diverse membership of over 1,800 organizations and individuals across North America, it hosts a range of events to advance orchestral music experiences and support its creators, plus recognize their contribution to society.