The music lovers in Nashville were just dealt a devastating blow, when the Nashville Symphony announced that they were canceling all shows until August 1, 2021. The announcement was shared on the Nashville Symphony’s website, claiming it was their best course of action to deal with the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
“Like many other businesses and organizations, the Nashville Symphony has been profoundly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic,” the statement began. “To date, we have been forced to cancel or reschedule more than 65 concerts and events, with losses thus far caused by the pandemic projected to total $8 million, or nearly 30% of our annual income. Since March, the Nashville Symphony’s management has been exploring every available option to ensure the long-term sustainability of the institution. In light of our current challenges, postponing all concert activity for the next year is the best course of action to ensure that the Symphony can continue serving our community in the long run.
“Without the ability to perform for the public, we are unable to generate essential operating revenue,” the statement continued. “And without that revenue, the Nashville Symphony faces a threat to its very existence. Until we have certainty that our economy can remain open, and that audiences are ready and able to return to large public gatherings, attempting to restart concert activity poses significant risks to our institution.”
Although new concert dates have yet to be announced, the Nashville Symphony says they are working hard to finalize those details. They also offered different options for ticket holders.
“If you are a ticket holder, our staff will contact you no later than July 15, 2020, to let you know about your options,” the Nashville Symphony announced. “At that time, you will be able to donate your tickets back to help support our Symphony; keep your tickets for your rescheduled concert(s); receive a flexible ticket credit; or request a refund. Please note, we can only honor ticket requests once we open the Ticket Option Window on or before July 15. Thank you for your patience as our reduced staff will be working to provide you with the best possible service.”
The Ryman Auditorium is open for business, although many of the nightly concerts have been canceled or postponed. The Country Music Hall of Fame is currently closed at least through June 30.