The Pew Center for Arts & Heritage Awards Advancement Grant to the Philadelphia Chamber Music Society

The Pew Center for Arts & Heritage has awarded an Advancement grant of $425,000 to the Philadelphia Chamber Music Society (PCMS), in support of the organization's efforts to research and develop new business models that respond to shifting trends in audience behaviors.

PCMS presents a rich and compelling variety of chamber music and recital programs performed by exceptional international and Philadelphia-based artists at affordable prices, while promoting new music and music education, collaborating with regional cultural and educational institutions, and providing high quality customer service to audiences.

The Center's Advancement grant will specifically support a multi-year project that will enable PCMS to conduct in-depth research into new pricing and membership models, acquire state-of-the-art ticketing software, and develop new customer service, sales, and marketing strategies to better identify, engage and retain audiences.

To address the changing nature of ticket buying habits, PCMS previously conducted two experimental programs to test an alternative to the traditional season subscription model. These programs yielded dramatic results, increasing repeat attendance and developing invested audience members who evolved from single ticket purchasers to programs such as a "young friends" group.

Advancement grants are multi-year investments designed to support bold, innovative initiatives that are led by exemplary arts and culture organizations in the greater Philadelphia region. These grants support the direct costs of programming and related infrastructure needs to help organizations accomplish their missions and improve their sustainability.

In 2014, the Center awarded Advancement grants to Opera Philadelphia and the Philadelphia Zoo.

Visit our Apply page to learn more about Advancement grants >