Association of British Orchestras

About Us

Benefits of Membership

Membership of the Association of British Orchestras is open to all those working within and to support the orchestral sector.  There are six categories for membership of the ABO listed below.  To view a list of current members click on the links below.

FULL membership is open to professional orchestras and ensembles which have existed for not less than two years in the UK, and have undertaken no fewer than 24 public performances.

ASSOCIATE members include those who have not yet fulfilled the requirements of full membership, as well as conservatoires, music colleges, national youth orchestras and overseas orchestras.

AFFILIATE membership is available to those organisations involved with the presentation, support and commissioning of the work of the Association and its full members, such as funding agencies, broadcasters, festivals and venues.

CORPORATE membership is available to other interested parties and commercial organisations that support the work of the Association and its members. These include agents, suppliers, composers' organisations, businesses and sponsors.

YOUTH ENSEMBLES membership is available to youth and student orchestras and other ensembles that work with young people up to the age of 21. Music conservatoires, national youth music organisations and orchestras and ensembles that offer professional development opportunities should apply for Associate membership.

INDIVIDUAL membership is by invitation only and is offered to former administrative staff of British Orchestras who have left the profession or are working abroad and who wish to remain connected to the UK orchestral scene.

The ABO provides a range of services for members, including:

  • A public affairs and communications strategy for the sector
  • Memberships and links to a variety of national and international bodies
  • ABO/MU Casual Concert / Freelance Orchestral Agreement
  • Regular events, such as the various Specialist Manager Meetings
  • Continuing professional development opportunities
  • Major industry events such as the Annual Conference and Seminars on current industry issues with substantial discounts for members
  • Monthly e-newsletter Update
  • Briefing events and papers on current issues
  • Volunteer service
  • Member forums to facilitate discussion between colleagues
  • Access to the members only area of our website

However, one of the most vital services that ABO provides is the advice and comment we give out daily over the phone and email as well as at personal meetings.

Next steps

For current subscription rates click here

To request a membership pack with further details click here.

If you would like to discuss membership further please call Orla Molony, Membership Services Officer, on 020 7287 0333.