Association of British Orchestras

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

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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 17 June

Our latest communication to members was sent out on Wednesday 17 June. 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.

Black Lives Matter

The ABO stands in solidarity with Black Lives Matter and against all forms of discrimination, injustice and inequality. We recognise the lack of diversity in UK orchestras and, working hand in hand with Arts Council England’s Diversity in Classical Music project, acknowledge the enormous amount of work which needs to be done. We believe fundamentally in supporting and promoting positive, meaningful change in our industry, society and the wider world. We pledge to be more attentive, to do better and to foster a space where everyone is both seen and heard. In doing so we strive for an orchestral sector that is without fear of prejudice or exclusion and that is fully inclusive, representative and reflective of the communities that we serve.

News and press

A Manifesto for Recovery - COVID-19 and the UK’s Orchestras

The ABO has produced a set of key messages on the impact of Covid-19 on the UK’s orchestras, our asks of national governments, and how we will generate a return on their investment.

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.

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