The upcoming film "Tar" captures the workplace dynamics of orchestras and has brought attention to the power dynamics and subtle codes associated with being a musician in an orchestra. The Berlin Philanthropic orchestra is known to be self-governed which has caused hierarchies and politics to impact the election of the chief conductor. Orchestras tend to have a pyramid power structure, however, there are also subtle codes and behaviors amongst the musicians that create complex social hierarchies within the workplace as well. Additionally, there are unique pressures on freelance musicians who fill in for missing players, as they navigate the social codes of the orchestra in hopes of receiving callbacks. There is also persistent low reporting of sexual harassment and discrimination within orchestra workplaces, highlighting some of the negative effects of the existing hierarchies and culture.
See "Hierarchies and power dynamics within orchestras create high pressure workplace environment and contribute to low reporting of harassment", Hugh Morris, Guardian, March 1, 2023