Virtual Peer Forums

Virtual Peer Forums (VPFs) are peer-to-peer conversations led by a facilitator and designed to connect you with your counterparts at other orchestras and ensembles in the ACSO membership network. This is a space to discuss working during times of transition, to exchange ideas, to ask questions, to share challenges, and to offer practices that have worked well (or not) for you and your organization. Most importantly, it is an opportunity to strengthen your professional networks and find colleagues to rely on for support.

VPFs are complimentary for members and $10 for not-yet-members. Registration is required. We limit the groups to 20 participants to maximize conversation and allow everyone to participate. Email [email protected] with questions or registration assistance.

Click here to review the ACSO Peer Group Attendance Policy before you register.

VIRTUAL PEER FORUM SCHedule

The following Virtual Peer Forums are scheduled in March and April 2023. 

All VPFs are 60 minutes and take place from 12:00-1:00 PM PT. Peer Forums on the same day will take place concurrently.

 

TUESDAY, MARCH 21
12:00-1:00 PM PT

Community Orchestra Staff and Board Leaders
Facilitators: Chelsea Chambers, Executive Director, Peninsula Symphony of Northern California
Who should attend: Staff and board leaders of orchestras made up of primarily volunteer musicians.
REGISTER

TUESDAY, APRIL 4
12:00-1:00 PM PT

Executive Directors of Professional Orchestras Under $1 Million
Facilitator: Sarah Weber, Executive Director, Association of California Symphony Orchestras
Who should attend: EDs of professional orchestras (both CBA and non-CBA) with operating budgets under $1 million.
REGISTER

TUESDAY, MAY 2
12:00-1:00 PM PT

Music Festival Staff and Board Leaders
Facilitator: Jenny Darlington-Person, Executive Director, Music in the Mountains
Who should attend: Staff and board leaders who run seasonal classical music festivals of any budget size.
REGISTER

 

ACSO Peer Group Attendance Policy

ACSO may maintain up to twelve Peer Groups for Orchestra Professionals (subject to change):

  • CEOs of Orchestras with Budgets over $1 million
  • Executive Directors of Orchestras with Budgets Under $1 million
  • Youth Orchestra Staff and Board Leaders
  • Community Orchestra Staff and Board Leaders
  • Music Festival Staff and Board Leaders
  • Development Staff
  • Operations Staff
  • Education and Community Engagement Staff
  • Finance & HR Staff
  • Marketing & Patron Services Staff
  • Board Members/Trustees
  • Artistic Leaders & Musicians

ACSO Peer Group meetings (virtual or in-person) are only open to individuals who hold the relevant roles within an orchestra or music ensemble. You do not have to be part of an ACSO member orchestra to attend, but you must be associated with an orchestra or music ensemble. Because sensitive or confidential information may be shared, peer group meetings are not recorded and are not open to the public, including business members or other companies, unless specifically invited. Please do not register for a peer group meeting if you are not part of that peer group or your registration will be canceled.