Virtual Peer Forums

Virtual Peer Forums (VPFs) are peer-to-peer conversations led by a facilitator and designed to connect you with your counterparts at other orchestras and ensembles in the ACSO network. This is a space to exchange ideas, ask questions, share challenges, and offer practices that have worked well (or not) for you and your organization. Most importantly, it is an opportunity to strengthen your professional networks and find colleagues to rely on for support.

VPFs are complimentary for members and $10 for not-yet-members. Registration is required. Date, times, and facilitators are subject to change. More peer forums may be added to the schedule. Email [email protected] with questions or registration assistance. 

Click here to review the ACSO Peer Group Attendance Policy before you register.

Click here to review ACSO's Commitment to Antitrust Laws.

VIRTUAL PEER FORUM SCHEDULE

Virtual Peer Forums will return in the Fall.

ACSO Peer Group Attendance Policy

ACSO may maintain up to twelve Peer Groups for Orchestra Professionals (subject to change):

  • CEOs of Professional Orchestras with Budgets over $1 million
  • Executive Directors of Professional Orchestras with Budgets Under $1 million
  • Youth Orchestra Staff and Board Leaders
  • Community Orchestra Staff and Board Leaders
  • Music Festival Staff and Board Leaders
  • Development Staff
  • Operations Staff
  • Education and Community Engagement Staff
  • Finance & HR Staff
  • Marketing & Patron Services Staff
  • Board Members/Trustees
  • Artistic Leaders & Musicians

ACSO Peer Group meetings (virtual or in-person) are only open to individuals who hold the relevant roles within an orchestra or music ensemble. You do not have to be part of an ACSO member orchestra to attend, but you must be associated with an orchestra or music ensemble. Because sensitive or confidential information may be shared, peer group meetings are not recorded and are not open to the public, including business members or other companies, unless specifically invited. Please do not register for a peer group meeting if you are not part of that peer group or your registration will be canceled. 

 Antitrust Guidelines

ACSO commits to comply with federal and state antitrust laws, which are designed to protect this country’s free competitive economy, without stifling reasonable conversations among peers.

Within ACSO-sanctioned programs and communication channels, we ask participants to avoid any discussions or conduct that might violate antitrust laws, raise an appearance of impropriety, or might later be viewed as evidence that competitors had coordinated or “signaled” one another about their respective market intentions.

For example, avoid discussions about specific prices for tickets/events or other services and products and avoid discussions about specific amounts of salary, wages, or benefits paid to any employee.

Review the League of American Orchestras antitrust guidelines for the orchestra sector.