Earlier this week, Orchestra London held its annual general meeting for the 2009-10 fiscal year – and it was a good news story. The orchestra reported a $59,266 surplus on the season, expanded concert programming, increased community partnerships, and continued with the work of Project Bravo, “a collaborative effort of the Board Directors, community volunteers, musicians, staff and unions to enhance the orchestra’s artistic impact in the community, while implementing a sustainable business model”.

Orchestra London executive director Joe Swan offered some highlights from the year that was: “In December, our collaboration with the Unity Project for the reading of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol reflected the spirit of the season. In the spring, our “Support The Troops” Concert acknowledged and expressed thanks for the many sacrifices being made by Canadian troops and their families. Finally, bringing the whole city together to celebrate London’s Olympians was a joyous occasion. The orchestra intends to expand on these initiatives and increase its presence in the city and region during the coming year.”

The media release continues, “while implementing these initiatives, the orchestra also reduced its operating cost structure by more than $1 million per annum over the last two years. Board chair Brent Kelman noted that ‘this cost cutting entailed painful sacrifices by all musicians and orchestra staff. Their personal commitment, which enabled the orchestra’s survival through a financial crisis almost two years ago, can hardly be overstated’. With cost issues now substantially resolved, Bravo’s primary concentration has become orchestra revenues. The new focus will be on increasing ticket sales to both traditional and new audiences, as well as attracting new forms of corporate support.”