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’ new, 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 Adrian Symphony Orchestra (Michigan) has postponed its June 5 concert to a later date, due to the expansion of statewide stay-at-home orders. A new date will be announced. The orchestra is posting videos, stories, and other resources online.
The Bridgehampton Chamber Music Festival (New York) has postponed its 2020 concerts to the summer of next year. The festival normally presents a dozen concerts for five weeks from late July to August in Bridgehampton and other East Long Island locations. Bridgehampton Chamber Music’s summer 2020 online activities will be announced in the coming weeks.
The Cincinnati Pops (Ohio) has cancelled its July 4 concert at Riverbend Music Center due to the coronavirus pandemic. In its place, the Pops will present a free livestream of musical performances, with details to be announced at a later date.
The Cliburn (Fort Worth, Texas), which produces the Cliburn Piano Competition and other programs, has delayed the start of its concert series from October 2020 to January 2021; the season will be shorter than usual. The concert series features recitals by classical musicians at Bass Performance Hall and other Fort Worth venues. The organization is exploring options for a few small live concerts this fall at alternative venues, utilizing social distancing. The summer seasons of the online Cliburn at Home, Cliburn Watch Party, and Cliburn Kids series will begin on June 15, with details to be announced. The Cliburn at Home initiative launched on March 30.
The Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra (Minnesota) cancelled its April 18 and May 2 concerts. The orchestra had previously hoped to reschedule concerts and events that were suspended this spring. The organization is posting past concerts for free viewing online, with more content being added every week.
