THIS WAS OUR IMZ ACADEMY FOR THE ORCHESTRA IN THE DIGITAL AGE

Adapting to the continuously growing digital realm can be a challenge for a traditional live art like orchestral performances. However, it can also fuel a creative, vitalising re-imagination of the ways in which Orchestras communicate and connect with their audience.

The IMZ Academy “Re-Imagining the Orchestra for the Digital Age” was held from 21-22 August 2017 in typical British summer weather at Barbican Centre London.

It was designed to support Orchestras in identifying and establishing relevant strategies to promote and position themselves in the digital world. On the one hand, we were looking into creative ways to communicate with their audience, on the other hand, we were examining possibilities and technologies in performance capture and streaming in order to reach and engage new audiences in an innovative manner.

The sessions were led by IMZ Academy Director Peter Maniura, Head of Digital Development at BBC Arts, together with the following expert speakers:

• Becky Lees, Head of LSO Live at London Symphony Orchestra
• Chris Rogers, Digital Project Manager for LSO Discovery at London Symphony Orchestra
• Jo Johnson, Senior Marketing Manager for Digital Communications at London Symphony Orchestra
• Mans Pär Fogelberg, Producer GSOplay at Gothenburg Symphony Orchestra
• Eva Essvik, Audience and Business Developer at Gothenburg Symphony Orchestra
• Kriss Russman, EMMY-nominated, multi-camera Director and Filmmaker

At this point we wish to extend a heartfelt Thank You to our committed expert speakers and their invaluable contribution to the success of the IMZ Academy for the Orchestra in the Digital Age!

Our gratitude also goes out to our 27 participants that joined us from 17 institutions from 7 different countries. But their special contribution went much further than those magical numbers alone:
They also held responsible for the extraordinary rousing and open atmosphere, which made it easy to connect and exchange and build long-lasting professional networks on a global scope. Moreover, the curious and motivated attitude of all participants was an additional encouragement to share knowledge and discuss ideas with peers from different backgrounds, experiences and countries.

Since registration for this IMZ Academy edition went quickly and was soon fully booked, the topic has obviously hit a nerve and meets the training and development needs for this sector. Hence, we are already planning an additional IMZ Academy for Orchestra in the Digital Age. Contact Sophie Schneider at imzacademy@imz.at to stay informed and get your name on the waiting list already.

Thanks again to our partners BBC Arts, London Symphony Orchestra, Gothenburg Symphony Orchestra, Kriss Russman, Barbican Centre London and all our enthusiastic speakers and participants, who made this IMZ Academy as special as it was!