Orchestra Management in Practice

Introducing the business models, organisational structures, and fundamentals of orchestras, this book takes readers on a journey through the evolution of orchestra management.

The author explores the dynamics between artistic excellence and financial sustainability. Key aspects of orchestra management are examined in detail, including artistic programming, strategic planning, financial and compliance/legal matters, audience development, resilience and adaptability, governance and board relations, diversity and inclusion, partnerships, and the role of technology and innovation.

With actionable resources, such as checklists, templates, and frameworks, for current and future orchestra leaders and managers, this comprehensive guide empowers readers in education and practice to navigate the complexities of orchestra management confidently and effectively.

"I have no doubt that this companion is an unprecedented contribution to comprehending the 'business' of orchestra management, an essential foundation for supporting these remarkable institutions in navigating the present and preparing for the future." 
Christopher Brenner, University of Music & Conservatorio della Svizzera italiana, Switzerland

"As First Concertmaster of the Tonhalle Zürich Orchestra, I am actively engaged in both strategic and day-to-day artistic decisions for the ensemble. In this role, I find that Dr Salvaggio's book is proving to be an invaluable resource. Had this book been available a decade ago, it would have significantly increased my capacity to make well-informed decisions, not just artistically but also at the management level within the orchestral field."
Klaidi Sahatchi, First Concertmaster, Tonhalle Zürich Orchestra

"During my 6-year term as Qatar Foundations?s Vice President for Research, Development, and Innovation, Salvino served as my Chief of Staff, effectively managing a team of over 500 and diverse research projects. His new book is a synthesis of his love for classical music and his managerial expertise. It stands as a pivotal resource, offering transformative approaches to orchestral management in a rapidly changing, multicultural world. For those committed to best management practices and innovation within the orchestral field, this book is not just beneficial?it's essential."
Dr Richard O'Kennedy, Former VP for Research, Development and Innovation, Qatar Foundation

"Over my 30-year career devoted to playing, conducting and cultivating youth orchestras and choirs in Europe, North and South America, Asia, Oceania, and the Middle East, I could see firsthand the inner workings of orchestra management from the stage across diverse cultural landscapes. Dr. Salvaggio's insightful book peels back the curtain to reveal the complexities involved in running a successful orchestra in today's competitive cultural landscape. His research and framework provide an invaluable guide for current and aspiring orchestra managers and artistic directors striving for excellence across a variety of cultures and business backgrounds. Actually, to my knowledge, this is the first book that pays such a deep attention to the classical orchestra industry globally. An absolute must-read!?
Giovanni Pasini, Principal Viola & Resident Freelance Conductor, Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra - Qatar Youth Orchestra - Qatar Concert Choir; Guest Principal of BBC Philharmonic and BBC Wales Orchestras, Australian Chamber Orchestra, La Monnaie (Bruxelles), Opéra de Lyon, RAI Italian Radio Orchestra, Toscanini Philharmonic Parma, Les Violons du Roi (Quebec), among others.

"As a freshly graduated master?s student in management, I found Dr. Salvaggio's new book to be hugely insightful to understand the business of arts & culture institutions. His in-depth global research on orchestras is remarkably unique and valuable. The book's detailed comparative analysis gives readers a panoramic understanding of orchestra management best practices across diverse continents and cultures. This will be an indispensable manual for any management student, also because, among other benefits, the practical resources provided at the end of the book are a goldmine to solve case studies, applicable not just for orchestras but for all arts and culture institutions and even beyond. Well-written, clear, and accessible, without jargon, the book is structured in a reader-friendly manner comprising separate boxes and tables that provide illuminating examples and case studies. In a nutshell: a manual second to none!"
Patrick Billiottet, Former student at ESC La Rochelle and EM Lyon (France) business school

"Dr. Salvaggio has undertaken a monumental task - rigorously analysing and comparing business and management models of classical orchestras across diverse global settings. His findings provide powerful insights into optimising these arts organisations amidst different cultural environments. Salvaggio makes an invaluable contribution, illuminating effective management strategies and best practices in finance, operations, marketing, artistic directions and more. Importantly, he also explores how arts and culture organisations can leverage the latest disruptive technologies to drive efficiency, expand reach and catalyse innovation. His book is essential reading for students and managers applying the latest thinking in applied economics and management to run a world-class musical institution."
Dr Marco Delogu, Professor, Applied Economics, DISEA - State University of Sassari (Italy)