What Is a Concert?

A concert is a meeting point for all of us who love music—whether we are performers, teachers, presenters, funders, journalists, or ticket buyers.
But what is a concert, really?
Or, more accurately, what can a concert be today?

This workshop explores every aspect of a concert except the act of playing. We’ll look at programming, stage presence, how to use time on stage intentionally when not performing (between movements or works), speaking about music, audience development, writing compelling marketing blurbs, choosing concert locations, handling production needs, crafting email pitches to presenters and funders, setting artist fees, and increasing ticket sales.

Many of us have witnessed declining concert attendance, shrinking media coverage, and reduced funding. But how have we adapted concerts to meet the needs of our audiences? There are no single, definitive answers to these questions. Yet, if we want to make a living as musicians, we must approach them with the same creativity and seriousness we bring to our interpretations.

Pedja Muzijevic leads this conversation, drawing on his experience as a pianist, Artistic Advisor at Tippet Rise Art Center in Montana, and Artistic Administrator at Baryshnikov Arts in New York. He offers practical insights on making concerts more relevant in the 21st century. Pedja has led What Is a Concert? workshops at the Verbier Festival Academy, Banff Centre, Colburn School in Los Angeles, and The Glenn Gould School in Toronto, among others.