Research Shorts: Learning and Participation Managers in Orchestras

This week, I am speaking with Dr Axel Petri-Preis about his article: “‘That’s what we actually should be doing’: learning and participation managers in orchestras’ beliefs, obstacles, and strategies”. His work explores how those responsible for learning and participation in orchestras understand their work and navigate institutional challenges in bringing about social and artistic change.

The study is based on qualitative interviews with learning and participation managers from professional orchestras in the UK, Austria, and Germany. Through thematic analysis, it explores their beliefs, experiences, and working strategies, revealing both shared challenges and context-specific approaches to embedding participation and learning within orchestral institutions.

Axel emphasised the breadth of the role:

‘Learning and participation managers act as cultural intermediaries, balancing artistic values with social aims. They face institutional barriers but develop strategic, often diplomatic practices to promote inclusion, learning, and organisational transformation within traditionally hierarchical orchestral structures.’

This research is relevant for orchestras, education and outreach departments, community music organisations, and policymakers. It provides insight into how social and educational engagement can be structurally integrated into artistic institutions. The findings may inspire new partnerships, leadership strategies, and training programmes that strengthen the societal role of orchestras.

Dr Axel Petri-Preis is Professor of Music Mediation and Community Music and Deputy Head of the Department of Music Education Research and Practice (IMP) at the mdw – University of Music and Performing Arts Vienna. His research focuses on socially engaged music-making, artistic citizenship, and institutional change in higher music education and professional practice.

Find out more:

• Read the full article in Music Education Research here.
• To find out more about his work, see his research profile.

Written by Kerry Bunkhall, Research & Data Manager for Music Mark.