Leadership vs…
Servant Leadership vs. Self - Serving Leadership!
IIn conversation with a young aspiring Leader I was asked, “MC, sum up true Leadership in one sentence!”… My reply “…True Leadership is conducting the orchestra…”
Let me unpack:
Orchestral conducting transcends the realms of musical expertise, delving into the psychology of leadership and group dynamics. A conductor must be adept at understanding and managing the diverse personalities within the orchestra, each musician bringing their unique temperament, skills, and expectations to the event.
An orchestra consists of 90 to 100 talented musicians, each with their distinct personalities.
A skilled conductor recognises these individual differences, from introverted violinists to extroverted brass players.
Understanding how each musician approaches their craft helps the conductor tailor their communication and leadership style.
Conductors have the innate ability to exhibit a liquorice allots of leadership styles:
Socialised Charismatic Leadership: Emphasises collaboration, inclusivity, and teamwork. It encourages musicians to work together harmoniously.
Personalised Charismatic Leadership: Here, the conductor’s charisma, and dare I say, authenticity, plays a central role. Their ability to inspire and motivate the orchestra is crucial.
The leadership-followership process in an orchestra unfolds in three distinct phases:
Testing Phase: Musicians assess the conductor’s leadership style and competence.
Working Stage: The orchestra collaborates, rehearses, and refines their performance under the conductor’s guidance.
Inspirational Stage: During the actual performance, the conductor’s leadership shines as they inspire musicians to give their best!
The conductor’s role is immersed in high levels of stress due to immense responsibility.
Leading a group of highly skilled professionals and meeting audience and critic expectations is daunting.
Effective self-management is crucial for maintaining composure (easier said than done!!!) and making quick, decisive decisions during performances.
The conductor fosters collaboration by managing egos and evoking a collaborative environment - critical ‘magic in motion’.
Each player’s contribution matters, and the conductor must value and integrate their input.
Balancing assertiveness with empathy ensures a harmonious performance.
In summary, orchestral conducting goes beyond musical direction. It involves understanding human dynamics, motivating individuals, and creating a cohesive ensemble - in essence Servant Leadership!
Do you conduct or instruct (destruct)? 🎵🎻🎶
