Creative Solutions

At the ABO Annual Conference 2024, the sector will come together at this unmissable event, tackling the challenges of inclusive recruitment; emerging technologies; sustainability; and how we can shift the dial in the narrative around the impact and value of the work of British orchestras, on and off the concert platform.

Highlights include:

• Two ‘Deep Dive’ sessions delving into key issues the sector is currently grappling with – building the narrative we need around classical music, in association with the Royal Philharmonic Society, and developing better pathways from higher education to the profession. 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.
• A performance double bill featuring a ‘fireside chat’ between incoming Chair of Bristol Beacon, Jonathan Dimbleby and Shadow Culture Secretary, Thangam Debbonaire MP, prior to an immersive performance by Paraorchestra, an integrated orchestra of professional disabled and non-disabled musicians - the first of its kind in the UK. The audience will be invited to walk amongst a 34-piece orchestra as they chart an immersive odyssey through drone.
• The refreshed ABO Classical Music Awards, celebrating the people who make the UK classical music sector brilliant – whatever their role, or team. The awards champion the ABO’s values by recognising individuals, teams or initiatives that demonstrate inspiration, innovation or collaboration within the ABO’s priority areas: Equity, diversity and inclusion; Learning and development; Green orchestras; Health and wellbeing; and Innovation and digital.

The 2024 Conference will give a platform to new voices as well as familiar ones, both experienced and less experienced. It will provoke debate and dialogue between delegates, and through its interactive marketplace, present throughout the Conference.