The Houston Symphony reports that single-ticket sales for its first three classical concerts for the 2009-10 season have beaten internal goals and exceeded sales for the comparable period in the two prior seasons. Total sales for the first three concerts totaled $202,200, versus $77,700 (2008-09) and $100,400 (2007-08). The striking difference between last season and this season is explained by Hurricane Ike, which struck the Houston area in September 2008. Nevertheless, orchestra administrators reported that they are “very encouraged” by the increases in ticket sales versus the 2007-08 opening weekends. The orchestra attributes the increased numbers to strategies including new ticket packages with “economy-friendly” pricing, more targeted marketing and communication campaigns, and collaborations with arts partners in the community. The orchestra reports that sales are already strong for its upcoming January performances of The Planets—An HD Odyssey. “We knew it was important to secure a strong start to the season,” said Glenn Taylor, senior director of marketing, “and we focused on doing everything possible to make that happen.”
Posted October 26, 2009
