An Observation on Selected Malaysian Western Art Music Organisations’ Audience Development Efforts During Pre- and Post-COVID Era

Authors

  • Stephen Tseu Institute of Music, UCSI University, Malaysia Author
  • Alwin Ru Kiet Wong Independent Researcher Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.37134/impac.v2.21.2024

Keywords:

audience development, classical music, COVID-19, Malaysia, western art music organization

Abstract

Faced with financial constraints and sustainability concerns, many organisations implemented adaptive measures following the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to the suspension of live concerts. As live Western art music in Malaysia regains momentum, organisations are building new audience bases and re-engaging prior audiences through creative strategies. Such strategies, namely alternative programming, personnel changes, and expanded artistic horizons, reflect a shift towards aligning with post-pandemic audience interests. This study examined the audience development efforts of four Malaysian Western art music organisations before and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Using an observational approach, data were collected from publicly available online resources. The findings indicate that alternative programming, personnel changes, and expanded artistic horizons played a crucial role in aligning organisational practices with post-pandemic audience interests.

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Author Biographies

  • Stephen Tseu, Institute of Music, UCSI University, Malaysia

    Stephen Tseu is currently an adjunct faculty at his alma mater, UCSI Institute of Music, and the co-founder of Red Carpet Artist Management. His professional experiences include peripatetic teaching positions at the Deutsche Schule, Epsom College, British International School, University of Malaya, and Sunway University, as well as appearing with orchestras and bands in venues such as Carnegie Hall, Herkulessaal at the Munich Residence, Esplanade, and many more. His research and performance interests are enriched by a deep passion for interdisciplinary knowledge and philosophical frameworks, which he integrates into his approach to performance, cultural management studies, and string pedagogy.

  • Alwin Ru Kiet Wong, Independent Researcher

    Alwin Ru Kiet Wong is a flutist, music educator, and licensed counsellor based in Kuala Lumpur. He teaches flute and serves as a part-time lecturer at several institutions. He has performed with various ensembles in Malaysia. Alwin has also conducted workshops on managing music performance anxiety and given mental health talks to various companies' employee assistance programs. His research interests include using music as a tool for therapy, with a current focus on music reminiscence therapy and its effects on individuals with dementia. Currently, he is collaborating with psychiatrists, psychologists, and musicians on related projects.

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Published

2024-12-31

How to Cite

Stephen Tseu, & Alwin Ru Kiet Wong. (2024). An Observation on Selected Malaysian Western Art Music Organisations’ Audience Development Efforts During Pre- and Post-COVID Era. Proceedings of the International Music and Performing Arts Conference, 2, 219-228. https://doi.org/10.37134/impac.v2.21.2024