The Role of Programming in Symphony Orchestras: Who Decides What Pieces Will Be Played and in What Order?

Deciding the lineup of pieces to be played at a symphony orchestra concert and their order is a crucial aspect of orchestral programming. This decision-making process often involves a blend of artistic vision, practical considerations, and audience engagement strategies. Historically, the conductor has held a significant role in this process. However, in today's changing landscape, factors such as financial sustainability and audience preference have shifted the dynamics of orchestral programming.

The Conductor’s Role in Programming

Traditionally, it is the music director or chief conductor who makes the primary decision regarding which pieces will be played and the order in which they will be presented. This individual, who often holds the conductor’s position, plays a pivotal role in maintaining the artistic integrity of the orchestra. The music director's responsibilities extend beyond just conducting; they must curate a program that resonates with the audience while also serving the growth and development of the orchestra.

The selection of pieces is critical, as the music director must consider various factors such as the technical and musical capabilities of the orchestra, the interests of the audience, and the overall theme or mood of the concert. For instance, a music director might choose a piece that showcases the orchestra's strengths, such as a complex symphony, followed by a more accessible and audience-friendly piece like a Mozart concerto.

The Impact of Financial Considerations

With reduced government support for classical music in many countries, including the United States, orchestras have had to adapt their programming to attract and retain an audience. This often means incorporating pieces that are well-known and popular, such as film soundtracks, which can draw in new listeners. Despite this, many top conductors have left their positions due to the pressure to play to audience expectations rather than artistic vision.

As an example, Esa-Pekka Salonen, the former Music Director of the San Francisco Symphony, cited this pressure as a reason for his resignation. The San Francisco Symphony's concert programs frequently featured well-known film scores, with additional multimedia elements, such as projections accompanying pieces like The Lord of the Rings, The Wizard of Oz, Star Wars, Encanto, Gladiator, and video game soundtracks from Final Fantasy. While these programs attracted a wider audience, they may have detracted from the orchestra's traditional artistic image.

Balancing Artistic Vision and Audience Engagement

A successful music director must strike a balance between maintaining the artistic vision of the orchestra and satisfying the preferences of the audience. This involves taking a thoughtful approach to program selection and ordering, considering factors such as the audience’s expectations, the nature of the programme, the need for constant improvement of the orchestra, rehearsal time, and special features of the concert.

A wise music director will begin a programme with an introductory piece, follow it with the main pieces of the concert, and end with a piece designed to conclude the evening on a high note. Sometimes, encores can be added to keep the audience engaged. For instance, a slow and dreamy piece followed by a brief, light, and quirky piece can create a satisfying and memorable concert experience.

Conclusion

The process of deciding which pieces will be played and in what order is a multifaceted challenge that requires careful consideration of both artistic and practical factors. While the conductor often holds the reins, a collaborative approach that includes input from other stakeholders can help orchestras navigate this complex landscape and deliver successful and engaging concert experiences.