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 California Symphony (Walnut Creek, California) has cancelled all concerts through April 30, following restrictions on public gatherings by the state. The orchestra is posting recordings, weekly chats on Facebook Live by Music Director Donato Cabrera, and videos from its musicians.
The Columbus Symphony (Ohio) has cancelled performances and events through May 2 at the Ohio Theatre, Palace Theatre, and other venues. The April 25 Symphony Gala has been rescheduled to August 22. All Columbus Symphony Youth Orchestras events through April 28 have been cancelled.
The New Zealand Symphony Orchestra (Wellington, New Zealand) has cancelled all concerts and events until 31 July. The NZSO had previously suspended concerts through May. The orchestra performs in Christchurch, Dunedin, Wellington, Auckland, Tauranga, Hamilton, and Napier. The NZSO is expanding its online content, with weekly videos by NZSO musicians playing in their homes and other free performances and educational resources.
The Omaha Symphony (Nebraska) has cancelled concerts through May 17 at the Holland Performing Arts Center and Joslyn Art Museum. The orchestra had previously cancelled concerts through April 30. The orchestra continues to expand its “Omaha Symphony | Anywhere” online initiative with archived recordings broadcast on 90.7–KVNO, educational videos, and social-media content from musicians.
The Pacific Symphony (Orange County, California) has announced concert cancellations and postponements through mid-May due to increased measures to slow the spread of COVID-19. A May 1 and 2 pops concert has been rescheduled to June 19 and 20. Concerts on May 7-10 have been cancelled. The Pacific Symphony Youth Ensemble concerts on May 9, 11, and 12 are also cancelled.
ProMusica Arizona (Phoenix, Arizona) has rescheduled its May 16 and 17 performances of Baroque to Bluegrass to October 24 at Cross of Christ Church in Anthem and October 25 at American Lutheran Church in Sun City.
The Toledo Symphony (Ohio) has cancelled all performances and events for the remainder of the 2019-20 season, through June 6. The orchestra has launched media initiatives including broadcasts of archival performances on WGTE, self-recorded performances by musicians at home, and Toledo SymphonyLab podcasts on FM91 and online. The Toledo Symphony School of Music has moved to a virtual model.
