A New Musician-Lead Artistic Planning Model

 

One of the most significant changes to the OSO’s operations this year has been in artistic leadership and programming. In July 2020, a joint working group made up of OSO staff, volunteer musicians, and Board members came together to develop a new Artistic Planning Group (APG) model to take on the responsibilities of a traditional Musical Director. It was felt that a new system would move the orchestra towards better financial stability, brand identity, and a more community-centric, contemporary awareness. 

The new Ottawa Symphony APG will determine the artistic direction of the orchestra and consists of five voting members: 

  • the General Manager;

  • the Artistic Operations Manager;

  • the Concertmaster; and 

  • two elected musician members from within the orchestra. 

This group reports to the Board of Directors and is responsible for all concert programming, engagement of guest artists and conductors, and the long-term artistic vision of the Orchestra. In line with OSO’s revised values, this model is democratic and inclusive with a view to better engage its musicians and community and offer employment to select local members. The first APG member election took place in December 2020 and the selection of a new concertmaster was completed in March 2021. 

Guiding Principles of the Artistic Programming Group:

  • Diverse & Inclusive 

  • Efficient 

  • Consistent 

  • Fair 

  • Community-Oriented 

Roles & Responsibilities

  • Programming and long-term artistic vision: With the long-term strategic direction for the organisation and a budget for each fiscal year (season) provided by the Board, the committee will jointly develop the artistic programming for the season (3-6 concerts), including guest soloists and conductors. 

  • Public and media relations, communications: Members of the committee will take on some media relations and communication tasks where needed, but can also draw on support from members of the orchestra, the conductor, and soloists. 

  • Auditions: Auditions will be conducted by the concertmaster alongside select members of the orchestra.  

Governance & Accountability

  • OSO Board of Directors: sets overall long-term strategy, budget, and financial oversight. 

  • OSO General Manager & Staff: execute the strategy and artistic programming, financial management, marketing and communications, fundraising and partner relationships, artistic operations. Report to the Board. 

  • Artistic Planning Group: develops artistic programming based on strategy, budget and partner relations. Reports to the Board via the General Manager.