Case Study 1

San Bernardino Symphony Orchestra

San Bernardino, California

www.sanbernardinosymphony.org

Client Background

Recently, the San Bernardino Symphony Orchestra (SBS) celebrated its 80th year of performing orchestral music for the region and offering educational programs for youth and schoolchildren. SBS has committed resources to strengthening institutional capacity over the last few years by building on its strengths and broadening the impact of the Symphony in the Inland Empire and Southern California.

Description of Project/Process

Previously, GA&A guided the SBS Board and staff through a planning process resulting in a strategic plan. Building on this institutional knowledge and relationship with the Board and staff, GA&A facilitates the annual SBS Board retreat to keep the momentum moving forward and to update the current strategic plan as needed. As part of this ongoing relationship, GA&A convened a community conversation in support of the planning process and community building goals.

Through a conversation with key leaders from different ethnic-specific communities, GA&A explored pressing community issues, leisure time activities, perspectives about the Symphony, and recommendations for reaching and engaging a more diverse audience.

Outcome

Anderson produced a written report outlining observations and recommendations for the Symphony to continue efforts in growing its audiences in a thoughtful way.

This commitment to the community is at the core of the mission, values, and vision adopted by the leadership of SBS, and is a guiding principle for all facets of SBS operations. Success will be measured with community support and deepening relationships, musical excellence, and the building of an audience based that more accurately reflects the community in which the Symphony exists.

Timetable

Three months including planning meetings, holding an evening conversation session, and preparation and presentation of the report to the Board.