August 27, 2024
This year, the Butler School of Music is significantly shifting towards digital concert programs. Driven by a commitment to environmental sustainability and a desire to enhance the concert experience, this transition reflects a broader trend in concert-going experiences. Our move to digital programs is motivated by several key factors including environmental concerns, audience preferences, accessibility, cost savings, expanded program options, flexibility for last-minute changes, and improved readability in dark concert halls.
Why the Shift to Digital?
Environmental Impact
One of the primary motivations behind our transition is the need to reduce paper waste. Traditional printed programs are bad for the planet, from the resources required for printing to the waste generated from unused or discarded programs. By adopting digital programs, we aim to lessen our footprint and contribute to more sustainable practices.
Audience Convenience and Accessibility
The new digital format will feature QR codes that audience members can scan to access the concert program directly from their smartphones. This aligns with audience expectations for convenience and immediacy. Digital programs are easily accessible, allowing for a more streamlined and user-friendly experience. Additionally, digital programs can be adapted to include features such as adjustable text sizes and contrast settings, making them more accessible to individuals with varying visual needs.
Cost Savings
Transitioning to digital programs also offers substantial cost savings. The expenses associated with printing, including staffing, paper, and ink costs, can be redirected toward other areas such as enhancing performances or supporting student scholarships. The financial benefits of going digital are significant and help us allocate resources more effectively.
Expanded Program Options and Flexibility
Digital formats allow for greater flexibility in content management. Changes or updates to the program can be made quickly and easily, accommodating last-minute changes without the need for reprinting. This flexibility ensures that the information presented is always current thus, enhancing the overall concert experience.
Readability in Dark Concert Halls
Reading printed programs in dimly lit concert halls can be challenging. Digital programs, on the other hand, can be easily viewed on smartphones, and they are illuminated and adjustable to the user’s preference.
Statistics from Last Year’s Printed Programs
To illustrate the impact of this change, here are some statistics from our printed programs last year:
- Weight: The combined weight of Butler’s printed programs each year is equivalent to that of a large grand piano.
- Distance: If laid end-to-end, last year’s printed programs would stretch from the Butler School to Barton Springs three times.
- Cost: The amount spent on printing could have purchased 4,000 clarinet reeds.
- Recycling: Approximately 33% of printed programs went straight into the recycling bin, highlighting the substantial waste generated.
- Unused Programs: The programs that were never distributed, if lined up, would reach the height of the UT Tower 50 times.