On the Road to Authentic Civic Engagement

An Assessment Resource for Orchestras in their Communities

The League’s new self-assessment tool, On the Road to Authentic Civic Engagement: An Assessment Resource for Orchestras in Their Communities is now available to every League member orchestra.

Click here for Civic Engagement FAQs.

On the Road to Authentic Civic Engagement is a diagnostic resource (not a report card), designed to help orchestras think deeply about their role in community and to help them assess their own readiness for growth and improvement.


Anne Parsons, President and Executive Director, Detroit Symphony Orchestra comments on the Civic Engagement Tool.

Building on the League’s Indicators of Progress (as developed through its own strategic planning process), this document is designed to help orchestras better understand “current state” through the lens of their civic role; their educational, community, and artistic profile; and the public perception of their orchestra. It invites orchestras both to look inside themselves, and to engage others – less involved with the orchestra – in deep and honest analysis and conversation.

We hope that use of this resource will benefit orchestras in multiple ways, including:

• framing conversations among staff, board, musicians, volunteers, and with the music director
• serving as a catalyst to achieve greater alignment within your orchestra
• as a key component of a strategic plan or visioning process
• as a tool for seeking input from those in your community not already engaged with your orchestra
• as a framework for new or different conversations
• as an opportunity for “truth-telling” and deeper reflection on areas that may need your attention
• as a first step in the development of new programs
• as a new way of making a case statement for your orchestra with civic leaders, funders, etc.
• as an evaluative tool, as you move On the Road to Authentic Civic Engagement

In addition to the Self-Assessment Tool, you will also have access to a program consultant, available beginning September 2, 2008, to help guide your organization through this vital, eye-opening process. This will truly be one of the best investments your orchestra has ever made.

To purchase On the Road to Authentic Civic Engagement for $275.00, please click here.

Click here for Civic Engagement FAQs.

For further information or if you have questions, please contact Polly Kahn at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

On the Road to Authentic Civic Engagement is made possible by the National Endowment for the Arts, MetLife Foundation, and Target. Funding is also provided by The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, Argosy Foundation, and The Hearst Foundation, Inc.