In order to better support the development of all art forms and gain a better understanding of the contribution of arts organisations to the economy, community and sustainability of the arts in general, the Arts Council of Northern Ireland (ACNI) commissioned Millward Brown Ulster, in conjunction with Amethyst Business Solutions, to complete an Economic and Social Impact Study of the Ulster Orchestra (UO) for the period 2000 to 2003. As outlined in the tender documentation the purpose of this assignment was: “To undertake an impact evaluation to demonstrate the contribution of the Ulster Orchestra to the economy, to the social well being of communities and to the sustainability of the arts in general." Specifically the research needed to:

Cover all activities of the Ulster Orchestra;

Look at the extended impact of the Ulster Orchestra through the activities of the musicians;

Cover as far as possible all available data collected on a local, regional and national basis on the Ulster Orchestra, including data relevant to audience profiles, capacity and attendance;

Consult with key stakeholders, venues, audiences, suppliers, the musicians and administrative employees associated with the Ulster Orchestra and any other useful sources where appropriate to the study. To download a copy of the report as a pdf file, CLICK HERE