Event FAQs
Q1: Why should I come to Conference?
A: You might get 1,000 different answers from our 1,000 delegates! But we think the top three reasons to come are: 1) you want to meet, network, and learn from your peers; 2) you wish to grow as a leader; 3) to know you’re not alone — there are other people out there with the same goals, challenges, aspirations, and questions that you have.
Q2: Where should I stay?
A: The League has established a block of rooms at the Baltimore Marriott Waterfront. Reservations may be made online and must be completed by May 6, 2026 to secure the League discounted rate.
More information can be found on the Hotel and Venues page.
Q3: How do I get around Baltimore?
A: Visit Baltimore has provided a website with useful information about transit, parking, and other attractions to make your visit memorable.
Q4: How do I get the most out of Conference?
A: At Conference, you’ll experience three days full of learning, networking, and music. We recommend taking a look at the Conference schedule so you’re prepared for what is planned. Reading through the sessions and determining what you’d like to attend in advance is also helpful, so you’re not choosing what session to go to on the fly. Also, be sure to make some time to network with the multitude of business partners set up in the Exhibit Area. Other than that? Introduce yourself to everyone—meeting other delegates is one of the best parts of Conference.
Q5: How do I access Wi-Fi in the Hotel?
A: Limited wireless internet access will be available in the hotel lobby, meeting space, and the sleeping rooms. On the meeting floors, your phone carrier reception should also work seamlessly.
Q6: What are Insight Sessions, Critical Conversations, and Business Perspectives? Should I pick ones to attend now?
A: Insight Sessions are panels and presentations covering major topics for the orchestra field, open to all Conference attendees.
Critical Conversations are conversation-based sessions and open to all Conference attendees. These begin with a short presentation focused on a particular topic, followed by facilitated discussions where audience members come prepared to share thoughts, ideas, questions, and successes of their own.
Business Perspectives are sponsored presentations during which partners from across the field share their expertise and best practices borne from their unique view of the industry.
You are welcome to choose any Insight Session, Critical Conversation, or Business Perspective during each time slot. These sessions are open to all Conference attendees. You do not need to sign up for them in advance, but we encourage you to read the descriptions of the sessions to help inform your decisions when you get to Conference.
Q7: What are Pre-Conference Seminars?
A: We know that lots of people want to make their trip to Baltimore as packed with learning as possible, so for an additional fee you can arrive early and choose from one of several intensive, hands-on learning sessions. More information about these can be found on the Conference schedule.
Q8: What is the Tech Fair and is it free to attend?
A: This half-day event, scheduled for the morning of June 1, will provide a unique opportunity to see showcases of products and services produced and provided by the League’s business partners in the areas of marketing, data management and CRM, ticketing, online program notes, audience engagement apps, in-hall concert technologies, and more!
The Tech Fair is designed for participant interaction and will include a range of products and services. Companies will be on hand to answer questions about the technology present.
The Tech Fair is free for all Conference registrants.
Q9: Are any group registration rates available?
A: Yes, we offer several different registration rates based on the size of your group. We encourage team attendance at Conference. Don’t know which rate is best for you? Contact Member Services at 646 822 4010 or member@americanorchestras.org for recommendations and details.
Q10: What is the League doing to make Conference accessible?
A: We are committed to creating an inclusive environment. Please visit our Accessibility FAQ to learn what services are already being provided and how to request accommodations.
Q11: What are the League’s COVID-19/health protocols?
A: In coordination with state and local guidelines, the League will not require masking at Conference and will not be checking vaccination status before entry. If state and local guidelines change, we reserve the right to change this policy at short notice.
While masking is not required, all League events are mask-friendly and we encourage participants to wear masks as they see fit. In keeping with the League’s event participation agreement, we ask that all participants respect one another’s choices.
Q12: Will there be a digital option for participating in Conference this year?
A: No, Conference will not be live-streamed this year. On-demand recordings of select sessions will be available after the fact.
Q13: Is there anything else I need to know?
A: Visit the Registration Area as soon as you arrive—we’ll have all your materials ready. Registration will be located on Level 4 of the Baltimore Marriott Waterfront.
Q14: What if I have more questions?
A: We love questions, so bring them on! If you have questions before Conference begins, email us at member@americanorchestras.org and we’ll get right back to you. During Conference you’ll find the League staff full of answers and waiting for you at the Registration Area.
There is so much we could tell you, but you get the idea. Have fun in Baltimore—we are looking forward to seeing you there!
Banner: Bus stop. Credit: Justin Tsucalas.