Program areas at League of American Orchestras
Learning and leadership development: the League delivers a range of online and in-person learning opportunities, including seminars and webinars, constituency meetings, mentoring programs, and cohort-based programs. It also operates grant-making programs that support organizational learning in innovation and in equity, diversity and inclusion. Through these programs, Orchestra staff, board members, musicians, and volunteers can acquire skills, knowledge, and networks that are vital to their leadership in the field. The annual national conference and mid winter managers meeting offer additional opportunities for networking and professional development, while providing a forum to discuss emerging issues and trends, exchange ideas, and model possible responses to field-wide challenges and opportunities.
Member services: the League provides some 2,000 members with extensive information about the field, including trends, open positions, new appointments, and the many other activities of the nation's Orchestras. Services to members include specialized guidance on operations, artistic, and community engagement topics that support the capacity of Orchestras to deliver on mission. Members are invited to participate in an online community, a confidential space where they can share their extensive knowledge and learn about best practices throughout the field.
Communications and public relations: the League provides Orchestras and individuals with updates and news about the field; develops strategic messaging about the public value of Orchestras for use nationally and by Orchestras locally; furnishes field-wide data and context to journalists; and provides media relations guidance to Orchestras nationwide.
Research and development: the League equips Orchestras with industry-specific research and information to fuel innovation and provides the data and information they need to make key decisions. The League also conducts, analyzes, and disseminates a range of surveys-from quick questions focusing on specific issues, to annual, in-depth studies.
Advocacy: the League represents the interests of American Orchestras to members of congress and the executive branch on issues affecting the Orchestra field; distributes updates on pending legislation, with recommendations for local action; and provides assistance to Orchestras to build their capacity for local and state advocacy.