Exploring the future of the performing arts: Insights for 2025 by Magnus Still

Industry predictions for 2025:

• Continued cuts in many places, but some position themselves as benefactors of the arts.
• Stable audience numbers.
• Job losses for many freelancers.
• Raised ticket prices.
• Progressive leaders will stand out.

The classical music world in 2025 will continue to be affected by the consequences of post-Covid recovery, ongoing geopolitical tensions and populist politics. Public authorities (cities and regions, but above all states and the EU) took on enormous debt during and after Covid to keep national economies rolling in turbulent times. Now, however, is the time to repay debts, or at least reduce spending. Consequently, many populations have voted for populist parties focused on cutting budgets. While inflation reached decade-high levels for a couple of years, it has now stabilised.

For the arts sector, these cuts will have far-reaching effects despite the arts’ minimal share of total public budgets. While salaried musicians and administrators will typically keep their jobs, programming is likely to become more populist. Freelancers may face unemployment; vacant positions may remain unfilled and there could be fewer concerts overall. To compensate, many organisations will likely raise ticket prices.

Audience numbers are expected to stabilise as operations have normalised post-Covid. Organisations that have already recovered their audiences should maintain stable attendance. However, many institutions may underinvest in marketing due to budget constraints, potentially limiting their ability to attract new audiences.

In this challenging climate, cities like Hamburg and Vienna may distinguish themselves as cultural benefactors. Just as during the Covid-19 pandemic, orchestras, concert halls, festivals and other classical music promoters have the opportunity to stand out by continuing to invest in people, innovative programming and
audience development.

Just like the Covid year of 2020, 2025 will present an opportunity for brave and visionary leaders in the arts to make a significant impact.

Magnus Still
Founder and Lead Project Manager
StillArt Limited

Published in International Arts Manager, January 2025.
https://internationalartsmanager.com/issue-01-vol-21-2/