Recent trends in orchestral programming among major American orchestras, 1988--2009

Few studies have documented the trends in programming in major American orchestras. Of those that have, only two span a period of more than ten seasons. This study updates analysis techniques used in past studies to provide an analysis of the most recent trends in American orchestral programming. Using the League of American Orchestras' Orchestral Repertoire Reports for nine randomly selected seasons from 1988-1989 through 2008-2009, charts and tables were produced tracing the recent trends in programming by era and region of composition, as well as trends in which composers are programmed most often. The results show that while orchestral programming among major American orchestras has remained fairly steady over the past 20 years, there are some trends worth noting, including a modest increase in contemporary and non-European works performed.