This page contains the final report of the Review of the Professional Orchestra Sector undertaken in 2011 and 2012 by the Ministry for Culture and Heritage (MCH). The Minister for Arts, Culture and Heritage, Hon Chris Finlayson, commissioned MCH to undertake the review to ensure the Government is supporting the best possible delivery of orchestral services to New Zealanders within current funding levels.
The report does not recommend major structural changes. It concludes significant improvements and efficiencies can be gained within existing organisational arrangements. Such an approach preserves the special character of and loyal support for each orchestra and the significant investments made in the sector over a long time.
The report identifies the need for everyone in the orchestra sector to work together better. The report’s key recommendation is that the central government funders of orchestras, MCH and Creative New Zealand, refine and implement a joint policy and funding framework for their support of orchestras. The framework is set out in the report and clarifies the different orchestra roles that central government will support.