Views of an audience: understanding the orchestral concert experience from player and listener perspectives

This paper draws on empirical research with a regional symphony orchestra and its audience, using qualitative surveys and interviews to gain an understanding of how the orchestral concert is experienced from the stage and the auditorium. Player and listener perspectives were sought on the nature of live classical music listening, the marketing of the orchestra, and the interactions between audience and performers. The multi-faceted portrayal of orchestral performance that results raises questions about the appeal of live classical music listening, and its role in the lives of current and potential audience members.