The inaugural International Orchestras Conference, September 6-8 in Wroclaw, Poland, will examine the key challenges and opportunities that orchestras face now and into the future. The three-day conference, themed as “Orchestras Now! Future Proof,” will address topics including: how to leverage lessons learned during the pandemic to forge resilience and relevance to communities; how to use professional networks and new technology to deliver greater impact; and what orchestras will look like in the next decade. With sessions for managers, musicians, venues, festivals, record labels, and broadcasters, the conference will also include discussions of what is happening across other industries. The conference is organized by Wroclaw’s National Forum of Music, which is home to thirteen orchestras, chamber groups, and choirs, in addition to seven festivals. Conference delegates will have the opportunity to attend the 58th International Festival Wratislavia Cantans; the festival’s opening concert will feature Christoph Eschenbach and the NFM Wrocław Philharmonic. The conference is co-curated by Mark Pemberton, former CEO of the Association of British Orchestras, and Natalia Klingbajl, Deputy Director for Development, NFM Wroclaw. Proposals for sessions, speakers, workshops, and peer-to-peer events are welcome, and may be sent to ioc@nfm.wroclaw.pl. Learn more at https://www.nfm.wroclaw.pl/en/orchestras-now. Registration opens on May 15, 2023.
