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 and information on the League’s coronavirus preparedness site.
The following orchestras and music organizations have recently announced postponements, cancellations, and other shifts in concerts and related activities due to the global pandemic. Many orchestras, musicians, conservatories, and others are posting videos, recordings, and educational resources online free of charge; visit the League of American Orchestras’ regularly updated directory of digital programming at SymphonySpot.org. Note: orchestras and music festivals are revising their plans as the situation evolves; refer to 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 Boston Philharmonic (Massachusetts), parent organization of the Boston Philharmonic Youth Orchestra and the Boston Philharmonic, which includes student, professional, and amateur musicians, has cancelled concerts and events by both ensembles through May 10.
The Columbia Orchestra (Ellicott City, Maryland) has cancelled or postponed concerts and events through May 16. The orchestra plans to hold its Young People’s Concerts on June 20, pending further notice concerning safety regulations.
The Holyoke Civic Symphony (Massachusetts), comprising college and community musicians, has cancelled its concert on May 3, the final performance of its 2019-20 season. The orchestra is posting a video series featuring at-home visits with its musicians.
The Jacksonville Symphony (Florida) has cancelled the remainder of its 2019-20 season, through June 13. The orchestra previously cancelled concerts through early May. In addition to concerts, the orchestra has cancelled events for donors and support groups. The Jacksonville Symphony states that it will maintain salaries and benefits for all employees and musicians through the end of the current season.
The National Philharmonic (North Bethesda, Maryland) cancelled concerts on March 21, April 18, and May 30, due to CDC recommendations to limit public gatherings.
The Pacific Symphony (Orange County, California) has announced the cancellation of all concerts through June 30, due to increased measures to slow the spread of COVID-19. The orchestra had previously cancelled concerts through mid-May.
The Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra (Pennsylvania) has cancelled or postponed concerts through June 14. Concerts had previously been cancelled or postponed through May 21. The orchestra has instituted salary reductions for musicians and staff and has suspended construction projects at Heinz Hall. The Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra is posting archival performances, education resources, and new videos self-produced by its musicians.
