The history and development of an organizational structure of the Józef Elsner Opole Philharmonic in the years 1952–2022

The article presents the history of development of an organizational structure of the Opole Philharmonic, pointing out the most significant events that affected the institution’s management style. The analysis of organizational patterns saved in the philharmonic and state archives, proves that the predominant type of structure, still functioning in the Opole Philharmonic for years, is flat (as regards the span of control), linear (in terms of organizational links) and functional (as regards cooperation between departments). For the workforce, this translates to a high availability of the management, with simultaneous preservation of a clear chain of commands wherein each employee has their own supervisor but also opens up to collaboration with other departments, which is essential for the implementation of various artistic undertakings. Upon completion of the research, the author acknowledged that given the size and scope of activity of the institution, the selected configuration of an organizational structure seems to be appropriate, as it enables efficient functioning and management. The article also presents how the organizational rules and regulations were modified over the period of 1952–2022. Most frequent changes in the structure referred to the position of the director, who – depending on their qualifications – was either a conductor-artist, or manager‑administration director. What evolved in the most noticeable way were the three departments: programming, promotion and education, which were finally blended into one department of organization and promotion. The article also outlines the main developmental trends, historical background and specific circumstances that had an impact on the transformation of the organizational structure of the Opole Philharmonic in subsequent periods.