“Five days of the League of American Orchestra’s annual conference—to be held June 7-17 and, for the second consecutive year, online—will each be devoted to specific topics that fall under the conference theme, ‘Embracing a Changed World,’ ” writes Nicholas Beard in Wednesday’s (4/14) Musical America (subscription required). “Panel discussions, keynotes, and facilitated ‘open chats’ will address: live vs. digital; community engagement; racial equality across the board; innovation in programming; and repositioning the image of the American orchestra after a year of upheaval. This marks Simon Woods’s first annual confab since taking over as President of the League last September. The list of personnel involved as presenters, panelists, emcees, and the like is impressive for its diversity, both of individuals and of their respective affiliations. Wynton Marsalis is the keynoter, ‘in conversation’ with Woods. Others involved are: Denise Wilmer Barreto, co-founder and executive producer, Serqet Productions and Media, on ‘When We Don’t Give Up: Facing Resistance to Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Work.’ Titus Underwood, principal oboe of the Nashville Symphony and a 2021 recipient of the Sphinx Medal of Excellence, on ‘Summer 2020.’ Anwar Nasir, chief revenue & advancement officer, Omaha Symphony, on ‘How Has Technology Changed the Orchestra Forever?’ Ed Yim, chief content officer and senior VP at WQXR, on ‘The Artistically Responsive Orchestra.’ David Etlinger, acoustics consultant, on ‘Technology challenges and solutions facing orchestras during and post COVID.’ Susan Howlett, consultant, on ‘What Do You Need in a Post-Pandemic Board?’ Janna Walters-Gidseg, executive director of the Pioneer Valley Symphony, on ‘Survive to Thrive: Why Community is Central to Our Success.’ The League also reports performances by ten orchestras on the schedule.” Learn more at leagueconference.org.
