Association of British Orchestras (ABO) Preview: Reimagining the score

How the ABO’s 2025 Conference is shaping classical music’s future

The Association of British Orchestras (ABO) is set to break new ground with its 2025 Annual Conference, relocating to the vibrant cultural hub of Gateshead. From 5 to 7 February, The Glasshouse International Centre for Music will host this conference, promising a programme rich in innovation, debate and practical insights for the UK’s classical music industry

The Association of British Orchestras (ABO) is set to break new ground with its 2025 Annual Conference, relocating to the vibrant cultural hub of Gateshead. From 5 to 7 February, The Glasshouse International Centre for Music will host this conference, promising a programme
rich in innovation, debate and practical insights for the UK’s classical music industry

In an era of rapid change for the arts sector, the Association of British Orchestra’s (ABO) Annual Conference emerges as a beacon of forward-thinking discourse and collaboration. As the UK’s leading classical music forum, it will bring together over 300 delegates from orchestras across the UK and beyond, along with funding agencies, venues, agents, publishers and suppliers. The event promises to be a hub of collaboration and strategy for navigating the complex landscape of classical music in 2025.

The welcome speeches, delivered by Sophie Lewis (ABO Chair and Chief Executive of the National Children’s Orchestras of Great Britain), Abigail Pogson (Chief Executive of The Glasshouse International Centre for Music) and Judith Webster (Chief Executive of ABO), set the tone for this gathering. The conference’s ambitious programme is designed to tackle head-on the pressing issues facing the industry. From the impact of AI to the challenges of sector investment, from evolving industry standards to creating new pathways into the arts and fostering inclusivity, these timely themes will influence discussions and strategies well beyond the conference.

One of the most anticipated features is the “Presidential Debate”, a high-energy opening session moderated by broadcaster Kate Molleson. Panellists include Alistair Mackie (Chief Executive of RSNO), Elise Brown (Director at Revere Arts), Laura Fullwood (Youth Leadership Co-ordinator at Orchestras for All), Rowan Rutter (Chief Executive of City of London Sinfonia) and Lloyd Coleman (Composer, Clarinettist and Associate Music Director of the Paraorchestra), who will share their bold visions for the future of classical music, setting the tone for three days of dynamic discussion.

Delegates will also benefit from unique insights into the current state of the sector. The first plenary session will feature Sir Chris Bryant MP (Minister of State for Creative Industries, Arts and Tourism) and includes contributions from Jack Gamble (Director of Campaign for the Arts), Chris Loughran (Co-Founder of Symbio Impact) and Lewis. This session promises to shed light on how the new Labour government plans to support and nurture the UK’s orchestral sector.

The conference goes beyond discussion, driving actionable change through its interactive discussions with two “Deep Dive” sessions. Facilitated by experts such as Steve Sacks (President of ABA Europe), Leila Ghorashi (Executive Director, Research at ABA) and Adam Szabo (Director of the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra), these sessions will allow delegates to delve into key issues such as organisational culture change and building a positive vision for thriving orchestras. 

These focused workshops aim to produce tangible actions and recommendations for the sector. Other notable speakers in the Deep Dive sessions include Emma Stenning (Chief Executive of the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra) and John Harte (Chief Executive of Aurora Orchestra), who bring diverse perspectives to these crucial discussions.

Innovation takes centre stage with a carousel of practical workshops and toolkits. Covering topics like improving impact measurement to attract new cultural funding and preventing sexual harassment in orchestras, these interactive sessions offer delegates the chance to gain actionable skills and knowledge to take back to their organisations. Specific workshops include the “Carbon Calculator” skills workshop, providing practical tools for sustainable planning, and the “Social Prescribing” session, exploring opportunities for orchestras to deepen their health and wellbeing work.

The event also celebrates excellence, with the presentation of the prestigious ABO Awards, and showcases the best in musical performance. Delegates will be treated to a special Royal Northern Sinfonia ensemble performance of Julius Eastman’s Femenine at the historic Wylam Brewery, followed by the Conference Concert featuring pianist Víkingur Ólafsson performing Beethoven’s “Emperor” Concerto.

As the classical music world grapples with issues of inclusivity and representation, the conference doesn’t shy away from these crucial topics. Sessions on inclusive recruitment, social prescribing and evolving horizons for inclusivity in classical music demonstrate the ABO’s commitment to fostering a more diverse and accessible industry. 

Notable speakers for these sessions include Roger Wilson (Director of Operations at Black Lives in Music) and Linton Stephens (BBC Radio 3 Presenter and Chineke! Founding Member), bringing their expertise to these vital discussions.

The 2025 ABO Conference represents more than just an annual gathering—it’s a bold statement about the future of classical music in the UK. By bringing together the brightest minds and most passionate advocates in the field, the ABO is driving meaningful change that promises to resonate long after the conference has ended.

The 2025 ABO Annual Conference will take place from
5 to 7 February 2025 in Gateshead. For more information, visit 

abo.org.uk/what-we-do/connecting/abo-annual-conference