Photo credit: Scott Jarvie
On behalf of the Governing Board, I am excited to report about our preparations for the 62nd annual ICSOM Conference, set to take place from August 21–24 in Portland, OR. The agenda boasts diverse presentations, covering crucial topics such as Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion; tackling issues like sexual harassment; and exploring strategies for internal organizing. In addition to these sessions, delegates will have ample opportunities to address their own topics through town halls and breakout discussions and immerse themselves in the culture of Portland.
Reflecting on my own experiences as a delegate, I can say that attending ICSOM conferences was always a highlight. Far beyond mere meetings, these gatherings are characterized by high-value content and meaningful interactions. The real power of the conference comes when individuals from different orchestras unite under a common purpose. Whether engaging in discussions on industry challenges, exchanging best practices, or strategizing, there is an unmistakable sense of community and solidarity permeating the room.
An important aspect of these conferences is the opportunity to gain insights from seasoned delegates. Their wisdom and experiences are invaluable resources for personal and professional growth. Furthermore, visiting the hometown of another ICSOM orchestra offers a unique chance to experience their community and culture, fostering a deeper appreciation for the music we collectively create.
Each conference serves as a treasure trove of knowledge and inspiration. One never knows which discussion or workshop will leave the most profound impact or offer timely insights. Attending these conferences always renewed my enthusiasm and optimism.
However, amidst the excitement, delivering the content of ICSOM conferences to our members remains a persistent challenge. While delegates are tasked with relaying information to their orchestras, the question arises: should certain information be directly distributed to our members, and if so, what’s the most effective method?
In response to this challenge, the Governing Board recently organized a zoom presentation titled “From Dialogue to Action: Preparing to Negotiate DEI Goals.” Facilitated by Jessica Schmidt of Orchestrate Inclusion and ICSOM Counsel Kevin Case, this session delivered conference-quality insights to our members mid-season.
The primary objective of this presentation was to prompt all musicians to contemplate the necessary steps for successfully negotiating changes in our CBAs to promote greater diversity within our orchestras. The response was encouraging, with approximately 50 members—beyond just delegates—in attendance. The presentation was a fusion of insights into member engagement on DEI matters by Jessica Schmidt and their integration with negotiation processes by Kevin Case. The ensuing Q&A session underscored the significance of such presentations in fostering dialogue toward building a more inclusive orchestral community.
We plan to make this an annual event, delivering presentations directly to all of our members mid-season. Look for future communications from your ICSOM delegate regarding these presentations. If you have specific topics or areas of interest you’d like us to address, don’t hesitate to relay them to your delegate—the Governing Board is eager to consider your suggestions.
Our overarching goal is to equip our members with the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate the complexities of orchestral life. Initiatives like these serve as stepping stones, empowering all our members to become more actively involved and engaged. However, our work is only as effective as its reach. Please consider attending ICSOM events whenever possible, and I look forward to working with all of you soon.
