Enriching Community: How the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra Uses InstantEncore to Deepen Community Engagement
In the heart of New Orleans—where music pulses through every street corner—the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra (LPO) is doing something extraordinary. Under the leadership of Executive Director Anwar Nasir, the LPO isn’t just performing classical music. It’s reshaping what it means to be a community-driven orchestra. We sat down with Anwar to hear how they are introducing Orchestra to new and diverse audiences, and using InstantEncore’s digital tools to stay connected, stay relevant, and build lasting connections with their audience.
Connecting with Community
New Orleans has its own sound, its own soul—and LPO leans into that. From Grammy-winning collaborations with the Lost Bayou Ramblers to performances with Big Freedia and Tank and the Bangas, the orchestra is building something uniquely local.
Anwar emphasized LPO’s commitment to collaboration with local artists and genres, challenging traditional notions of what an orchestra “should” be. By embedding the orchestra within its community's identity, they’re reaching new and diverse audiences.
“We’re not just doing this for educational concerts or one-off pop shows,” Anwar emphasized. “It’s infused into our mainstage subscription series, our chamber events, our happy hours. We’re saying: this orchestra is for this community.”
A Place in the Phone, A Personal Connection
LPO adopted a mobile app, supported by InstantEncore, not as a novelty, but as a strategic tool to maintain real-time connection, communicate across venues, and modernize their engagement.“ One of the first things I wanted to do was launch a custom app,” he shared. “Because if we have a place in someone’s smartphone, we’re able to connect on a more personal level.”
LPO’s custom-branded app has become their digital home base—helping them communicate in real time, promote their evolving programming, and give their audience a direct line to the music they love.
And when new guests show up, the LPO mobile app keeps them engaged—with push notifications, personalized content, and a place they can always come back to.
LPO uses push notifications for cultural touchpoints, last-minute changes, and joyful moments. These messages help patrons feel connected—not marketed to.
“It takes 30 seconds to download the app. It's very quick, convenient, and easy. And we can send out things like a Mardi Gras message—it becomes a part of who we are.”
Real-Time Flexibility with Digital Programs
The LPO performs in a variety of venues across New Orleans, often with fast-moving programs that demand flexibility. Adopting digital programs, powered by InstantEncore, gives them the ability to adapt instantly—no reprints, no delays.
“Things change,” Anwar said. “We add a concert, we switch a guest conductor, we change a piece. InstantEncore lets us update the digital program instantly, without any additional cost.”
And the results go far beyond logistics.
“I have no idea if someone is reading a printed program,” Anwar noted. “But with InstantGuide, I know. I can see how many are opening it, when, and how often. That’s invaluable.”
Designed for All Audiences—Including Loyalists
That’s the heart of it. LPO’s story is proof that embracing digital tools doesn’t dilute the art—it strengthens the connection between performance and community.
“It’s a digital world” It’s not about replacing Beethoven with bounce music. It’s about offering more. “We still play Brahms, Tchaikovsky, Copland,” Anwar explained. “We’re creating a web of ways people can engage with us.”
For longtime patrons who love traditional repertoire, the app simplifies everything—from keeping up with upcoming events to reading program notes—while adding optional digital perks for those who want more.
Final Takeaway: The App Isn’t Just a Tool—It’s Part of the Orchestra’s Identity
“We want people to feel like the app is part of who we are… not just something that exists on the side.”
From community pride to operational efficiency, LPO is using InstantEncore to make orchestral music feel personal, accessible, and unforgettable.
“Keep doing the good work, folks. Encourage people to think digital-first—we’re in a digital-first world.” - Anwar
Ready to Be Your Community’s Favorite App?
The Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra is using InstantEncore to connect with people before, during, and long after the music stops. If you’re ready to create that kind of lasting relationship with your audience. Let’s make something incredible—together. Schedule a demo today!
