How do you steer a course to manoeuvre your musicians into forming a high performance Flagship ensemble?
As the leader of the Royal Australian Navy Band (2002-2012), I was fortunate to enjoy the company of group of musicians who, collectively, had a wide range of musical and professional experience. They formed our part-time reserve detachments and full-time professional detachments. These musicians specialised in either classical or jazz performance techniques and performed in groups ranging from small jazz and contemporary ensembles to traditional classical chamber ensembles. They also played in the ceremonial band, concert band and wind orchestra. From time to time they deployed as a member of a small element aboard a major fleet unit and also on operational deployments to Iraq, Afghanistan and the Solomon Islands. Most, not all, had professional music qualifications whereas others were highly skilled and accomplished soloists.
So how did we manage to bring this diverse group of musicians together and fulfil our mission whilst also supporting the professional development needs of one and other? We started by articulating a clearly defined purpose for our musicians then encouraged and empowered them throughout the voyage.
I think, on reflection, we managed to build a powerful Flagship with many supporting capabilities.
James P. Lewis in his book Working Together: 12 Principles for Achieving Excellence in Managing Projects, Teams, and Organizations says ‘If you always do what you’ve always done, you’ll always get what you always got’. And so it is.
How will you steer a course to manoeuvre your musicians into a high performance Flagship ensemble? You can start by reviewing some of my articles or just send me a message to start the conversation with me.
Follow the link to listen to one of the great soloists we had in our company:
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