Association of British Orchestras

ABO Conference 2024 Deep Dive: Building the narrative for classical music

Thursday 25 January 2024 - Thursday 25 January 2024

Bristol Beacon Trenchard Street Bristol BS1 5AR

We invite delegates to choose between two ‘Deep Dive’ sessions which will run concurrently and will delve into key issues the sector is currently grappling with. These bumper sessions will include presentations and provocations from a range of contrasting speakers and facilitated discussions, resulting in tangible actions and recommendations for impactful change. The table discussions will be led by representative teams of colleagues from across the region and sector.

How can we build the narrative we need for classical music to thrive?

In association with the Royal Philharmonic Society

It’s time to speak out like never before. Classical music is experiencing existential cutbacks that others feel are justified. How do we turn the tide? Advocacy isn’t just about lobbying. It’s how we all talk about and account for classical music in everything we do. As the ABO embarks on its new advocacy campaign, this deep dive invites you to discuss what’s working in the current classical narrative and what’s not. Several guest speakers will pose initial provocations, laying bare the complexities and pitfalls of advocating for classical music today. Then it’s over to you: together we will reflect on our current collective approach, define the values of music we need to emphasise better, and devise essential next steps to build the best possible case for the music we love.

Hosted by James Murphy, Chief Executive, Royal Philharmonic Society with provocations from Dr Hannah French, Academic and BBC Radio 3 presenter; Amina Hussain, Principal Flute, Manchester Camerata, and Jonathan Deakin, Parter, McKinsey & Company.

Click below to book on to this Deep Dive: Building the narrative for classical music.

Or click here to book on to our other Deep Dive: Shaping the future musical workforce.

You are asked to book on to one Deep Dive only. Note that due to venue capacities, it will not be possible to switch Deep Dives on the day.

Annual Conference

The next ABO conference will take place in London,
hosted by The Southbank Centre, from 4-6 February 2026
.