MUAI 201 The Decline of the Modern-Day Classical Orchestra (2024)

The popularity of classical orchestras has been declining in the modern era. This can be attributed to the overall downturn of the classical music genre and specific aggravating factors such as managerial changes that have caused orchestras to fail. We examined orchestras such as the New York Philharmonic and the San Antonio Orchestra and how their different strategies have led to varied outcomes. To address the decreasing attendance in classical orchestras, we propose that orchestras should adapt to modern consumer tastes and styles, increasing exposure to younger audiences, and becoming more inclusive in programming and outreach.