Across the United States, orchestras are grappling with a complex symphony of challenges – economic pressures, shifting audience behaviors, and a profound re-examination of institutional values. As these vital cultural organizations navigate this critical juncture, their board leaders are deeply engaged in charting a course forward with purpose. It is against this backdrop that the League of American Orchestras will convene its national conference in Salt Lake City, Utah. In anticipation of this gathering, we delve into the perspectives of various orchestral leaders within Utah, illuminating their key challenges, priorities, and hopes for the future of orchestral music, and examining how their boards are evolving to meet the demands of the times.

In an era defined by economic uncertainty, cultural flux, and a yearning for connection and clarity, the orchestra remains a powerful platform for music, reflection, dialogue, and joy. Nowhere is this more evident than in Utah, where its orchestras serve as more than mere cultural touchstones; they are vital community hubs where creativity, tradition, and civic life intersect.

From June 11-13, 2025, Utah Symphony | Utah Opera will host the League of American Orchestras’ 80th National Conference in Salt Lake City, a pivotal opportunity for orchestras nationwide to convene for learning, networking, and discovery. The conference will feature dedicated sessions for trustees, offering particular value to board members. In alignment with the conference theme, "ASCEND," we engaged in insightful conversations with board chairs and executive directors from Utah's professional, youth, and community-based symphonies, exploring how leadership can elevate thinking, shape the future, and lift everyone to new heights.

From fundraising to education, programming to governance, these leaders are tirelessly working to ensure the continued flourishing of their orchestras, committed to preserving the power of music to inspire, comfort, and unite people across generations. Their candid reflections offer valuable insights into current initiatives, upcoming projects, and long-term aspirations.

Eric R. Anderson (Board Chair, Murray Symphony Orchestra)

Anderson articulated a clear philosophy regarding non-profit, particularly orchestral, governance: "The board is responsible for managing the administrative and operational tasks essential to sustaining the organization. By fulfilling these responsibilities, the board ensures that the musicians can focus on their passion without the burden of administrative duties." Reflecting on the Murray Symphony's role within its community, he noted, "Our community consistently supports us because we have long cultivated an identity that reflects their values, interests, and needs." He proudly added, "Celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, the Murray Symphony Orchestra has a long-standing tradition of providing high-quality, family-friendly, and affordable performances to the Utah community."

Addressing pressing issues and opportunities, Anderson stated, "A primary challenge for the Murray Symphony is selecting music that resonates with both our community and our musicians. Our repertoire must be engaging, appropriately challenging, and appealing to our audience." He explained that the orchestra employs a music selection committee, comprising volunteers representing every instrument section, to balance artistic excellence with audience appeal.

Patty Bartholomew (Executive Director & Board Chair, Cache Youth Orchestra)

Bartholomew identified key challenges for the nascent Cache Youth Orchestra, now in its third year: "Securing funding as a new non-profit, the difficulty of recruiting woodwind, brass, and percussion players, the ongoing refinement of our artistic vision, and building a dedicated board." She acknowledged the dual burden of serving as both Executive Director and Board Chair, emphasizing the future need for role separation.

Regarding the value of music and arts education, Bartholomew asserted, "It is essential for our community, beyond just cultivating potential new audiences. Participation in a youth orchestra fosters connections and nurtures creativity and innovation in a way that is unparalleled." She elaborated, "Ensemble playing positively impacts students' academic performance, self-esteem, and sense of belonging, providing them with an outlet to express themselves in beautiful and innovative ways."

Blanca Bednarz (Executive Director, Utah Valley Youth Symphony Orchestra) & Qing Chao (Artistic Director)

Bednarz and Chao jointly emphasized, "Our shared belief is that everything we do should contribute to education, operations, and enhancing artistic quality. Ticket revenue and donations are entirely reinvested into the program, covering equipment, artistic content, advertising, instructor fees, venue rentals, taxes, and legal fees." They described their small yet efficient board operations, expressing a hope for new board members who share the orchestra's vision of community service, educating young musicians, and collaborating with local organizations, following recent board member departures.

Highlighting the transformative impact of music and arts education, Chao explained, "The orchestra is a very safe environment for young people to experiment. If they make a mistake, no one gets hurt. Usually by the end of the year, everyone is much more expressive, open, and brave, which greatly impacts the quality of the music. Music always sounds more beautiful when people are not afraid to communicate." He underscored the importance of fostering a supportive and collaborative attitude among students.

Identifying a pressing challenge, Bednarz pointed to "the rising cost of everything." She added, "We try to keep tuition as low as possible, but we have had to increase it minimally. We worry about burdening parents while striving to do the best we can for our students and hope to offer scholarships in the future."

Alice Stevens Gardner (Board Chair, Southwest Symphony)

Gardner described the Southwest Symphony's role within its community: "Since 1980, we have served as the cultural heart of Southern Utah’s expanding and vibrant arts hub. A collaborative, innovative, and educationally focused symphony, we pursue our mission to inspire and enrich audiences through the transformative power of symphonic music." She highlighted a significant partnership with Utah Tech University, which has transformed the Cox Auditorium on campus into a new performing arts center. "We raised $40 million through the contributions of hundreds of generous community donors, businesses, Washington County, and the Utah State Legislature," Gardner proudly stated. "The newly renovated performing arts center will not only be the symphony's home but will also impact future generations through state-of-the-art technology, employment, entertainment, and educational opportunities."

Barbara Scowcroft (Board Chair, Utah Youth Symphony Orchestra)

Scowcroft articulated the Utah Youth Symphony Orchestra's community role: "As the state’s first youth orchestra, our role is to keep the musical climate of our community healthy, challenging, fun, and positive. UYS alumni run private lesson studios, become music educators, and are important arts patrons. Many graduates continue their love of music into adulthood, playing in Utah’s numerous community orchestras."

She identified key qualities of an excellent board: "A deep love for classical and contemporary music and the musicians who play it, an open mind to learn without a personal agenda, and a recognition of the diverse people who can contribute to our mission, even without musical training, providing them space to learn, grow, and be creative."

Regarding the vision for the orchestral field, Scowcroft stated, "Building on the great traditions of classical music while welcoming new works and not being afraid to experiment with concert formats will positively impact the future of symphony orchestras and engage more people. We are family-friendly and user-friendly. We will continue to remind the public that we are not an elitist group. This strengthens the audience base and gives them 50% ownership of every concert. The musicians on stage are the other 50%. Together, we make great concerts."

Reflecting on non-profit governance, Scowcroft added, "I deeply appreciate the dedication and time of our board members. Because they have their own businesses and responsibilities in their personal lives, I don’t think it’s realistic or even necessary for them to be involved in the day-to-day operations of a youth or professional orchestra – that’s too much to ask. You have to have lived the life of a musician to understand it. It’s not fair to expect an outsider to understand the subtle nuances and needs of a working musician."

To new audiences, Scowcroft offered a warm invitation: "Trust us! Come into the concert hall, and you will immediately understand why you must return. You don’t have to wear anything specific, and it’s even okay if you fall asleep. That’s a compliment to us as musicians that we have you in a comfortable space. Music heals and expands us. It changes our cells and our souls."

Harold Shirley (Board Chair, Southern Utah Symphony Orchestra)

Shirley described the Southern Utah Symphony Orchestra's community role: "We consider ourselves one of the cultural anchors of our community. Our role is to make orchestral music accessible, meaningful, and connective to the lives of those we serve, from lifelong concertgoers to students experiencing a symphony for the first time." He emphasized the value the orchestra provides in a rural community, adding, "Our annual Messiah performances, our vibrant Rock Gold concerts, and programs like our Young Artist Showcase highlight the talent within our region, while events like our Children’s Jubilee and educational outreach help inspire future generations."

Addressing potential new audience members, Shirley stated, "Whether it’s a formal concert or an engaging family event, our goal is always the same: to inspire, connect, and enrich our community through the power of live music. If you’re new to orchestral music or simply curious, we invite you to come and experience it for yourself. You’ll find that every performance is an invitation to discover something new, feel deeply, and connect with others."

Regarding the importance of music and arts education, Shirley asserted, "It enriches lives beyond the concert hall. Exposure to orchestral music fosters creativity, empathy, discipline, and connection – skills that strengthen both individuals and communities. Especially in rural areas, it can be a transformative source of inspiration, healing, and belonging for many."

The insightful perspectives of Utah's orchestral leaders paint a vivid picture of the multifaceted challenges facing American orchestras, while underscoring their deep commitment to community engagement and the vital importance of arts education. The upcoming League of American Orchestras National Conference promises to be a crucial platform for these leaders to convene, share wisdom, and collectively chart new pathways for the future.