Catalyst Guide: Orchestras in Health and Wellness
May 27th, 2025
United States
Theodore Wiprud, Karen Yair
As evidence grows of music’s profound impact on health and well-being, orchestras are increasingly recognizing the potential to lead in this space.
Posted byCherry Ng
Pending staff verification
Notify
Abstract/Description
While some orchestras have been involved in health-related partnerships for decades, the COVID-19 pandemic and the rising need for mental health support have accelerated this movement. Expanding programming with a focus on health and well-being is deepening orchestras’ community engagement while also demonstrating their role as vital contributors to public health, social connection, and local resilience.
Momentum continues to build through major conferences and cross-sector partnerships. In 2016, Renée Fleming helped launch the Sound Health Network, a collaboration between the National Institutes of Health, the National Endowment for the Arts, and the Kennedy Center. More recently, the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, working with Fleming, the Jameel Arts & Health Lab, and Performance Hypothesis, presented Healing Arts Atlanta in 2024, an ambitious initiative bringing together diverse partner organizations.
This resource is designed to guide orchestras in the early stages of working with health and well-being providers, while drawing on the insights of established programs.
Momentum continues to build through major conferences and cross-sector partnerships. In 2016, Renée Fleming helped launch the Sound Health Network, a collaboration between the National Institutes of Health, the National Endowment for the Arts, and the Kennedy Center. More recently, the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, working with Fleming, the Jameel Arts & Health Lab, and Performance Hypothesis, presented Healing Arts Atlanta in 2024, an ambitious initiative bringing together diverse partner organizations.
This resource is designed to guide orchestras in the early stages of working with health and well-being providers, while drawing on the insights of established programs.
