From the time that COVID-19 (novel coronavirus) first impacted the performing arts, The Hub has been tracking postponements and cancellations by U.S. and international orchestras, performing arts centers, and conservatories.
The League of American Orchestras is posting resources and information about coping with the pandemic as a service to the orchestra field. These resources include information about the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security package; discussion groups and one-on-one consultations for League members; guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and other authorities; and more. Find regularly updated resources, guidance, and information on the League’s coronavirus preparedness site.
To help reduce the spread of the virus, orchestras and other music organizations are obeying government bans on large gatherings, adhering to shelter-in-place orders, and complying with guidance from health authorities. The following organizations have recently announced postponements, cancellations, and other shifts in concerts and related activities. Several orchestras are posting videos, recordings, and concert streams online free of charge, and many conservatories have moved to online learning. Please note that these organizations are revising their plans as the situation evolves; refer to their individual websites and social media pages for the most up-to-date information. (This list is not complete, and we will continue to post announcements as they arrive.)
The Baltimore Chamber Orchestra (Maryland) has cancelled its May 17 concert due to the closure of its rehearsal and performance venue at Goucher College. The orchestra has postponed its annual spring gala to fall 202, with a new date to be announced.
The Charleston Symphony Orchestra (South Carolina) has postponed or cancelled all remaining 2019-20 season performances. The Martha and John M. Rivers Performance Hall is closed through May 11 due to the pandemic, as are other Charleston venues. The new
Charleston Symphony Channel on its website features archived performances, musician spotlights, and music-education resources, with new content each week.
The Detroit Symphony Orchestra (Michigan) has cancelled or postponed concerts through June 21. The DSO had previously cancelled or postponed concerts through May 10. Cancellations include the season’s remaining classical and pops concerts as well as an annual benefit on June 20. All Civic Youth Ensembles and Detroit Community Ensembles rehearsals have been suspended. The orchestra has made its past Live from Orchestra Hall webcasts available for free and is posting new musical content online.
The Eastern Connecticut Symphony Orchestra (New London, Connecticut) has postponed all concerts and events through April 30, and hopes to announce new dates.
The Greater Bridgeport Symphony (Connecticut) cancelled its March 12 concert and has postponed its April 18 concert. The orchestra’s June 6 gala benefit is currently proceeding as scheduled.
The Greenwich Symphony Orchestra (Connecticut) has cancelled its concerts on April 7, 18, and 19 as a result of bans on large gatherings.
The Norwalk Youth Symphony (Connecticut) cancelled its March 22 performance with the Norwalk Symphony and its March 28 performance due to mandated venue closures. The youth orchestra states that rehearsals will continue as scheduled but will be cancelled if Norwalk Public Schools cancels classes or if the situation changes. The youth symphony’s summer tour to Italy may be cancelled or postponed.
The Peoria Symphony Orchestra (Illinois) has announced that previously postponed concerts in March and April have been rescheduled for June and August. The orchestra’s new #PSOAtHome digital series features performances by its musicians as well as educational and family resources.
