Association of British Orchestras

The ABO represents the collective interests of professional orchestras, youth ensembles and the wider classical music industry throughout the UK.

An Orchestra In Every School Members area Events

Connecting

The ABO connects member to member and the wider industry through networking opportunities, keeping them well-informed and up-to-date with best practice to help build resilience and financial sustainability

Championing

The ABO champions British orchestras and the wider membership, raising their profile and influence with key stakeholders and the British public, through political engagement, media, social networks and stakeholder bulletins.

Developing

The ABO helps develop the skills and knowledge of its members’ staff, including providing and signposting to high quality professional development opportunities for all tiers of management and musicians.

Annual Conference

The next ABO conference will take place in Birmingham from 3-5 February 2027.

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News and press

ABO Reflects on 10 years Post Brexit Referendum

Ten years on from the Brexit referendum, UK orchestras continue to feel the impact of post-Brexit touring arrangements, with increased costs and administrative complexity affecting international activity.

ABO Statement on Government and Arts Council England Responses to the Hodge Review

The Association of British Orchestras (ABO) welcomes the UK Government’s response to the Hodge Review and Arts Council England’s considered response to its recommendations.

ABO contributes to UK–EU cultural exchange discussions in Brussels and Westminster

The Association of British Orchestras (ABO) has played an active role in a significant week of advocacy for the UK’s orchestral and wider music sector, contributing to high-level discussions on cultural exchange and international touring both in Brussels and in Whitehall.

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Member Events

Member Events are one of the ABO's key services that are most valued by members. We run a variety of webinars, symposia, networking events and roundtables, both online and in-person throughout the year.

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