IAM Vol 22 Issue 07

July 2026

Welcome to the July issue of International Arts Manager. In our cover feature we learn why Parlando’s conductor and founder Ian Niederhoffer insists that every unfamiliar piece must earn its place, as he discusses the ensemble’s boldest season yet and the spice-rated Chili Pepper System that has divided and delighted audiences.

We head to Munich’s Staatstheater am Gärtnerplatz to catch up with Artistic Director Josef E. Köpplinger, who discusses world premieres and why he would rather lead “the people’s opera” than chase elite status. Elsewhere, Thea Paraskevaides, Founder of Classical Unlocked, reflects on SXSW London, where classical music entered wider conversations around technology, AI, brands and the commercial music landscape. We also hear from Beth Morrison Projects, as applications open for its 2026 Producer Academy. 

As IAM’s media partner, we preview the Communicating the Arts Ottawa–Gatineau edition (13–16 October 2026), which brings cultural leaders together to examine how institutions can build connection and understanding across communities. A special offer for IAM readers is available in the feature.

Also in this issue

News
BBC Proms 2026 marks 250 years of American independence
Leeds Piano Competition announces change of key
WNO launches Friends initiative
LA Opera reveals 40th anniversary season figures
[PIAS] acquires Signum Records in global agreement
Paris Opera musicians launch new orchestra
Grand Teton Music Festival breaks ground on $35 million renovation
ECHO announces 2027–28 Rising Stars cohort
Delos and Colburn School form exclusive recording partnership
Edinburgh International Festival introduces new phone initiative

Beth Morrison Projects opens 2026 Producer Academy applications
Musical Chairs
From promotions to retirement – who’s on the move?
Classical Music Signings
Keep up to date with the latest industry news
Competitions and Awards
sideNotes: Flying with instruments in a 
changing Europe
ISPA: Global Voices:
In conversation with Clare Beresford and Emily Davis (Little Bulb Theatre, England) and Pamela Alderson (Británico Cultural, Peru)
APAP: A View from Here:
Lisa Richards Toney: We don’t have a value problem. We have a proof problem
CINARS: Connected Voices:
Gilles Doré with MASA’s Abdramane Kamaté and Circus Baobab’s Kerfalla Camara on African performing arts and international influence continent
Conductor Ian Niederhoffer:
Finding the resonance in Parlando’s next season 
Josef E. Köpplinger on running Munich’s Staatstheater am Gärtnerplatz
SXSW London: Classical music outside its usual rooms
Diary Gavin Higgins: A week with the award-winning composer and Associate Composer at Three Choirs Festival