Mission Statement

Our Values

Anti-Racism

We commit as an orchestra and organization to equitable and anti-racist practices that support women and gender-marginalized artists with fairness, dignity, and respect. We actively examine and dismantle barriers rooted in gender bias, racism, and systemic exclusion within orchestral culture. We understand that this work requires ongoing reflection, accountability, and action in our leadership, programming, partnerships, and community engagement.

Feminism

We center feminism in our artistic and organizational vision. We affirm that women and gender-marginalized artists are essential leaders, creators, and innovators in shaping the future of orchestral music. Their artistry is not a theme or special initiative, but foundational to our identity. We intentionally uplift their voices in performance, composition, conducting, education, and leadership. We challenge traditions and structures that have limited their authority and visibility, and we commit to building systems where their leadership is expected, supported, and sustained.

Breaking Down Barriers and
Advancing Social Justice

We work to expand access to orchestral music by questioning customs and practices that restrict participation or reinforce exclusion. Whether barriers are cultural, educational, financial, or institutional, we seek to create pathways that widen opportunity and deepen belonging. We believe excellence grows stronger when access grows wider.

We understand orchestral music as part of a larger social landscape. Our artistic choices, leadership practices, and community presence are aligned with movements toward equity and justice. We are committed to contributing to cultural change, not standing apart from it, and to building an orchestral culture that reflects the values of fairness, dignity, and shared humanity.

Community and Belonging

We are building an orchestra rooted in respect, collaboration, and shared responsibility. Internally, we strive to cultivate rehearsal and performance spaces where musicians feel safe, valued, and heard. Externally, we seek meaningful partnerships that reflect and serve the broader community. We believe music-making flourishes when people experience authentic connection and collective care.

Wellness

We affirm that artistic excellence and well-being are inseparable. As we build our organization, we are committed to humane expectations, sustainable practices, and a culture that respects boundaries and whole-person health. We reject burnout as a badge of honor and recognize that thriving artistry requires care.

Compassion and Courage

We lead with empathy while remaining grounded in accountability. We encourage open dialogue, courageous conversation, and the freedom to raise concerns without fear of dismissal or retaliation. We believe strong communities are built through honesty, listening, and shared responsibility.