Association of British Orchestras

The ABO represents the collective interests of professional orchestras, youth ensembles and the wider classical music industry throughout the UK.

Join ABO today Members area

Connecting

The ABO connects member to member and the wider industry through networking opportunities, keeping them well-informed and up-to-date with best practice to help build resilience and financial sustainability

Championing

The ABO champions British orchestras and the wider membership, raising their profile and influence with key stakeholders and the British public, through political engagement, media, social networks and stakeholder bulletins.

Developing

The ABO helps develop the skills and knowledge of its members’ staff, including providing and signposting to high quality professional development opportunities for all tiers of management and musicians.

CORONAVIRUS UPDATE - Wednesday 20 May

Our latest communication to members was sent out on Wednesday 20 May. If you did not receive this, a copy can be found in the Advice and Factsheets section of the Members Area along with other resources that members may find useful during this time.

News and press

The Impact of COVID-19 on the UK's Orchestras

The success of the UK's creative industries is now under threat as a result of the impacts of COVID-19. The ABO has released this document summarising important asks to the UK Government that will directly impact the industry's return to business. The ABO welcomes parliamentarians raising these issues and would be happy to provide any further information that may be required. Please contact Mark Pemberton.

BREXIT – FTA OR NO DEAL?

The ABO has published its latest factsheet on Brexit, which outlines likely scenarios for immigration and touring at the end of the Implementation Period.

ABO Announces 2020 Awards

The ABO has announced the winner of the 2020 ABO Award. Also announced at the ABO Conference in Manchester and Salford were the recipients of the ABO/Classical Music awards.

View all news

Specialist managers meetings

SMMs are one of the ABO’s key services that are most valued by members.
Each group of managers meets twice a year to discuss topical issues and hear from pertinent speakers.

View all