Iceland Symphony Orchestra attendance falls 12%

Attendance at Iceland Symphony Orchestra concerts has fallen by 12 per cent in two years, while ticket revenue has missed forecasts and the orchestra reported a deficit last year, according to a follow-up report by Iceland’s National Audit Office, published by mbl.is.

The orchestra had 80,588 concertgoers in the 2022-23 season, compared with 71,177 in 2024-25. Subscriber numbers have also declined over the past three years. Although public funding increased, the orchestra’s finances were negative by 6.8 million Icelandic krónur last year, and its equity stood at minus 2.6 million krónur at year-end.

The report follows a 2023 review that set out four recommendations requiring action. The orchestra has fully addressed one, while the Ministry of Culture, Innovation and Higher Education has partly addressed two. The remaining recommendation, concerning clarification of the orchestra’s status, has not been addressed.

The audit office said the orchestra needs realistic targets for raising revenue and clear operational goals. The 2023 review had also called for measures to increase attendance and set out a clear action plan.

The orchestra has made changes to address workplace issues, including revising its organisational structure, issuing a staff handbook and improving access to policies and other key documents. However, results from the Institution of the Year surveys for 2024 and 2025 indicate that management and workplace morale still need improvement. The 2023 review had found that difficult staff issues affected morale and communication, with signs of increased workload, bullying and violence.