New World Symphony: Why Digital Innovation Was The Key To Deepening Connections With Their Community
The Vision: Creating Lasting Connections Through Technology
Co-founded in 1987 by visionary conductor Michael Tilson Thomas and Ted and Lin Arison, New World Symphony’s (NWS) dedication to reimagining classical music and shaping the next generation of musicians is evidenced in almost 40 years of successfully nurturing community both on and off the stage. Based in the stunning Frank Gehry-designed New World Center in Miami Beach, NWS is committed to making classical music accessible, engaging, and relevant.
Yet, as audiences become increasingly digital, NWS faced a challenge: how to sustain meaningful connections in an online world and expand access to new audiences.
For NWS, the answer lay in breaking down traditional barriers and meeting audiences where they are—whether in the concert hall, in their communities or online. To lead this digital transformation, NWS turned to Siggi Bachmann, Senior Director of Research and Design. With a background in human-centered design, Siggi’s mission is clear: to create digital solutions that make each performance a lasting, immersive experience.
How InstantEncore Transformed NWS’s Audience Engagement
Siggi led NWS in a partnership with InstantEncore to develop a seamless, interactive digital experience with a custom mobile app integrated with Tessitura. This collaboration would transform each concert into an immersive, lasting experience, extending the impact of every performance beyond the concert hall.
Here’s how InstantEncore’s digital engagement tools reshaped NWS’s approach to audience connection:
1. Digital Content That Goes Beyond the Venue
Through their app, NWS shares exclusive videos, live-streamed concerts, and on-demand performances. The app even supports casting to home screens, providing a flexible viewing experience. “Audiences can connect with us on their own terms,” explains Siggi.
2. Real-Time Interaction and Engagement
With push notifications, NWS can communicate directly with patrons before, during, and after performances, providing concert insights and timely updates. “The app allows us to stay connected beyond the concert,” Siggi says, “making audiences feel like they’re part of our community.”
“I think the app is the best option for delivering digital tickets. It’s secure, cost-effective, and keeps our audience on our mobile platform, where we can engage them even more.”
3. Seamless Ticketing and Membership Access Through Integration with Tessitura
Integrated with Tessitura, the app serves as a complete solution for ticketing, membership, and access to event history. Patrons can access digital tickets, bypass traditional ticket lines, and enjoy a seamless experience on their phones.
4. Mobile WALLCASTⓇ Concerts: Expanding NWS’ Reach to New Communities
A unique feature of NWS’ outreach is the WALLCASTⓇ concert series, which projects live performances onto the exterior of the concert hall. They’ve extended these WALLCASTⓇ concerts with a trailer that brings curated performances into neighborhoods across South Florida, expanding accessibility to new audiences.
Starting in 2025, NWS plans to use the app during WALLCASTⓇ concerts in Miami Beach to prompt real-time donations and recognize contributors live on screen. This innovative feature will create a shared experience and further NWS’ mission of fostering deeper connections with their community.
5. Enhanced On-Site Experience
Patrons at live performances can use the app for pre-ordering concessions, exploring concert details, and accessing exclusive content. NWS plans to expand these offerings with in-app merchandise options, enriching the on-site experience.
“WALLCASTⓇ concerts are about more than music. They’re about transforming Miami Beach into a cultural hub accessible to everyone.”
Results: Building Loyalty and Extending the Experience
Since implementing their app with InstantEncore, NWS has shown impressive results in audience engagement and loyalty:
Organic App Growth: The app has grown organically, proving its value. Loyal patrons appreciate the easy access to NWS content, both on-site and off.
High Engagement Rates: Over 60% of users opt into push notifications, highlighting the trust and loyalty NWS has fostered with its audience.
New Avenues for Donations and Community Support: With real-time prompts for donations during WALLCASTⓇ concerts, NWS is exploring new ways to align the app with its fundraising goals. “There’s so much potential here,” Siggi shares. “We’re excited to align the app with our mission in ways that engage and inspire.”
“Innovation has always been in our DNA. Our goal is to make classical music feel personal, accessible, and memorable.”
Building Connections Beyond the Concert Hall
New World Symphony’s journey with InstantEncore illustrates how thoughtfully designed technology can go beyond solving operational challenges; it can create meaningful, lasting connections. The InstantEncore platform helped NWS transform each concert into an experience that audiences carry with them long after the final note.
What’s Next: Innovating for Even Deeper Connections
As NWS looks to the future, Siggi’s team is focused on enhancing the app with new features, including in-app content for WALLCASTⓇ members and sponsorships. “We’re rethinking how our audience experiences music,” Siggi explains, “from the first concert announcement to long after the applause.” For NWS, the app isn’t just a tool; it’s a digital extension of their concert hall, bridging the gap between musicians and audiences in powerful, lasting ways.
For arts organizations aiming to deepen their connection with audiences, New World Symphony’s partnership with InstantEncore is a model of how thoughtful technology can turn each performance into a lasting relationship. Learn more about how InstantEncore can help your organization expand its digital reach with an InstantEncore demo.
