The Ministry for Culture and Heritage has published a discussion document as part of its review of the New Zealand professional orchestra sector.

A review was announced last year with the aim of assessing whether the current funding structure and model provides the best delivery of orchestral services to New Zealanders.

Funding for orchestras is provided by the Ministry for Culture and Heritage for the NZSO and through Creative New Zealand for four regionally-based orchestras, the Auckland Philharmonia, Vector Wellington, Christchurch Symphony and Southern Sinfonia. In all government invests over $17 million a year in support for orchestras.

The terms of reference for the review were published in October last year. Input from the orchestras themselves, an external reference group and an international expert has informed the discussion document.

Reference group chairperson Peter Biggs said the review had canvassed a wide range of views and had actively sought to involve as many orchestra members as possible.

“This has been a thorough process that has resulted in a robust and well-informed discussion document. The reference group would now like to encourage people to make submissions for further consideration.”

The discussion document outlines three main challenges for the orchestra sector within an environment of static government funding: changing community needs and expectations, financial pressures and the need to clarify the government funding model.

Four scenario options are put forward, outlining different governance, management and funding models.

Submissions on the discussion document close on Monday, August 20.

New Zealand Professional Orchestra Sector Review discussion paper (July 2012)

New Zealand’s professional orchestras have, for many years, made a valuable contribution to our cultural life.  They are the cornerstone of a wider network of  junior orchestras, community orchestras, ensembles and performing groups, tertiary music schools, music teachers and composers.

Our five main orchestras have been supported by successive governments and local authorities as a public good.  However, with a static funding environment for the foreseeable future, changes in public demand and a population that is increasingly concentrated in the north of the country, it’s time for a stock-take.

The discussion paper has been informed by input from the five main orchestras, their boards and funders, an international expert and an external reference group.  It outlines the challenges facing the sector and presents some ideas for future change to ensure New Zealanders continue to have access to high quality orchestral services.

Your thoughts on those challenges and potential changes will inform the recommendations made to the Minister.

Submissions on the discussion document close on 20 August 2012.

New Zealand Professional Orchestra Sector Review discussion paper [PDF 413.35kb]

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Media Release: Ministry for Culture and Heritage