Marketing in a Recession

I think we need to use the economy as a guide for what is possible, and what is not. However, we still need to focus on the role of classical music in the lives of various constituencies. For example, the role of symphony orchestras in providing introduction and access to music in public schools, and in particular, urban schools in disadvantaged cities and towns, is more critical than ever. And, recognizing that audiences will be making choices based on price and value, orchestras need to make sure that their offerings provide both access and affordable tickets to all levels of attendees. This can be accomplished through partnerships with school systems, community organizations and groups that help us reach potential audiences. These partnerships may include, but not be limited to, funding that supports value pricing and ticket access.

About the author

Margery Steinberg
Margery Steinberg

Associate Professor of Marketing and
Executive Director of The Center For Customer Service
University of Hartford

Dr. Steinberg earned her doctorate from the University of Connecticut and teaches courses in marketing, consumer behavior, and retailing. She has played a key role in working with the National Retail Federation in developing and implementing the job skill standards for retail sales associates, as well as work with the Connecticut Business and Industry Association to develop school-to-career skill standards for the retail, tourism, recreation and entrepreneurial cluster.

As the Executive Director of The Center For Customer Service, Dr. Steinberg has been the leading force in developing the Center’s retail and customer service training programs. Partnering with such organizations as Capitol Region Workforce Development Board, Community Renewal Team, City of Hartford Department of Social Services, and other agencies, The Center For Customer Service was a key player in the region’s Welfare-to-Work training and placement for over five years. In addition, the Center has been active in fostering community economic development in the Upper Albany neighborhood, one of Hartford’s economically disadvantaged areas. Dr. Steinberg developed and currently facilitates the Upper Albany Business Network, a collaboration of small retail and service businesses in Upper Albany. The Network received seed money from the Department of Community Economic Development (DECD) in partnership with the Connecticut Business and Industry Association (CBIA), and subsequently received a grant from the Department of Labor to develop and deliver customer service training to 50 small businesses in North Hartford. She also developed the Micro Business Incubator Program which matches University of Hartford students to work with small urban businesses to upgrade their skills and enhance their operations. This program’s funders include The City of Hartford, the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, Travelers Foundation, United Technologies Corporation and Bank of America.

Dr. Steinberg is the Executive Vice President of the Boston Symphony Association of Volunteers, is a Board Member and Past President of the Hartford Symphony Orchestra, and serves on the Boards of several arts organizations including the Colonial Theatre in Pittsfield, Massachusetts and the Greater Hartford Arts Council.

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