MuseDialogue – “We also see that audiences are not being replaced with younger folks. I think the difference this time is that organizations are going to have to give up the tried and true methods of attracting audiences and re-evaluate how they are going to continue to attract patrons.” All I can say to this is, YES! I think there is a necessary and fundamental shift in the way we reach out and involve Millennials in arts experiences, although not to the exclusion of currently faithful audiences and donors, of course.

I think the key will be striking a balance between stewarding the current patrons, while attracting the new. That being said, such efforts have to embody more than simply jumping on the bandwagon. The organization’s leadership and staff must believe in the need to be forward thinking and emphasize relevance in the 21st century. With so much competition for entertainment, we cannot expect audiences and fans to come to us. We must work actively to show them why we’re important and exciting.

Anyway, I’m looking forward to reading and chatting more!! This is exactly what I have been researching in regards to symphony orchestras. I will be writing more about Millennial audiences and donors and how nonprofit arts organizations, symphony orchestras especially, can engage these 21st century patrons.