About
Specialist in growing and engaging audiences for the arts
I work with artists, ensembles and venues to reimagine how audiences connect with the arts. Blending curation, marketing and digital creativity into one joined-up approach, my work is rooted in the knowledge that powerful storytelling and imaginative presentation can grow and diversify audiences.
For nearly 15 years, I’ve created multi-disciplinary projects proven to attract and engage new audiences, collaborating with orchestras, choirs, composers, museums, theatres, lighting designers, movement directors – and even an astronaut. Alongside my creative direction and curation of live events, I design integrated marketing strategies, campaigns and digital content that help arts organisations expand their reach and deepen their impact.
My live and digital projects have been staged at many of London’s leading venues, including Southbank Centre, the Bridge Theatre and the National Theatre, as well as in less conventional spaces like Mail Rail at the Postal Museum. My work has featured at Spitalfields and Cheltenham Music Festivals, as part of UCLA’s Tune In Festival in Los Angeles, and has transformed the staging and communications of the annual Royal Philharmonic Society Awards.
Alongside a busy freelance career, I am Creative Director of Sinfonia Smith Square’s pioneering #ConcertLab series (shortlisted for a RPS Award in 2018) and a co-producer of Spitalfields Music Festival. My earlier career included leading the marketing and communications team at Southbank Sinfonia, directing Family Concerts at Southbank Centre (shortlisted for a Fantastic for Families Award in 2019), and helping to establish Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra’s digital department.
Whether working as a one-stop agency or as part of a wider team, I combine creative thinking with audience strategy to deliver projects and campaigns that resonate. I’d love to hear from you if you’re looking to reimagine how your work reaches and engages audiences.
How I can help you
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I develop holistic strategies and campaigns that help cultural organisations understand and connect with their audiences.
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From social media trailers to artistic films or documentaries, I can shoot and edit high quality content for you and your audiences.
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From brochures to social media content, I provide high-quality, imaginative, and cost-effective design services tailored to classical music, museums, and cultural organisations.
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I have been taking photographs of musicians for 15 years, shooting rehearsals, live concerts, recording sessions, marketing photoshoots, album covers and more.
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Through story-led programming or the creative direction of even bolder projects, I can help you forge experiences that attract new audiences and engage them in a meaningful way.
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Whether immersive shows, one-off concerts, brand events or festivals, I can bring creative and production expertise to make sure your events offer an exceptional audience experience.
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Keen to boost your team’s skills and confidence around your audience offer?
I lead workshops for artists and managers on audience development. These can cover how to build and start delivering effective communications, the power of digital channels, and new approaches to concerts - from conception to performance.
Clients have included Britten Pears Arts, YCAT, Freiburger Barockorchester, Royal Holloway University of London and Southbank Sinfonia’s annual fellowship programme.
“Matt created OFA's first ever communications review and strategy, offering clear guidance on brand, tone, emails, socials, digital and print. His ideas, creativity, passion for the work we do and professionalism are sector-leading.”
Nick Thorne, Chief Executive, Orchestras for All
