Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony Orchestra

Nov 12

As a former employee of Centre In The Square, I was both surprised and relieved when the Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony announced its return on October 30, 2024. I was surprised at the speed with which the Symphony emerged from its bankruptcy proceedings to resume operations. Relieved, because, while the Symphony and Centre In The Square had different KPIs and metrics of success, the Symphony’s presence enriched the local arts and entertainment ecosystem. It provided employment for musicians, administrative and support staff, and rented venues, including Centre In The Square, contributing broadly to the community’s cultural fabric.

The Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony (KWS), founded in 1945, evolved from a small community ensemble into one of Canada’s premier regional orchestras. At its peak, it employed 52 professional musicians and held about 90 concerts annually over a 38-week season, with its performances broadcast nationally on CBC Radio Two. The KWS has been a cultural institution in Waterloo Region, supported by arts councils, municipalities, private donors, and corporate sponsors.

In September 2023, the KWS declared bankruptcy, ceasing operations after the pandemic’s impact strained its finances. This was part of a broader trend in classical music, where subscription-based revenue models have struggled, as audiences increasingly prefer the flexibility of single-ticket purchases over season subscriptions. This shift reflects a global decline in classical music subscriptions, which were traditionally a stable revenue stream but now face competition from new entertainment options and changing audience habits.

Following a successful proposal to creditors, the KWS re-emerged in late 2024, with plans to rebuild its legacy through strategic programming and community engagement. Upcoming performances include On Remembrance and Hope on November 16, featuring works by Sibelius, Ralph Vaughan Williams, and Beethoven, and a holiday celebration on December 20 and 21.

As the holiday season approaches, I’m particularly glad for the Symphony’s return and hopeful that it can once again perform its annual Yuletide Spectacular, a beloved local tradition. Going forward, I believe the Symphony’s growth and financial stability will depend on the popularity of accessible pops concerts that appeal to the broader community, alongside a selection of “signature” classical programs for core supporters. Given the worldwide trend of declining subscription sales, the KWS would be wise to innovate beyond traditional models and focus on revenue from single-ticket sales, sponsorships, and donations rather than seasonal subscriptions.

In the meantime, here are some photos of past Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony shows I was lucky to be a part of during my tenure at Centre In The Square. This particular Yuletide Spectacular featured over 200 years of combined services to the KW arts scenes on stage at once. A very special moment to witness, and I’m glad I was there for it.

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