Equity Arc’s Post

A recent post from the Sydney Symphony Orchestra: ‘Do you know why orchestral musicians usually wear black formal wear⁉’ provides the following reasons: ‘In the 18th century, orchestras were usually part of the household staff of famous noble families …The musicians would perform at lavish events and would need to be dressed to match the occasion - and the tradition has stuck with us ever since.’ While I appreciate this is an explainer piece of content designed to give more context to an established convention, doesn’t this rationale provide the perfect reason why orchestras should be more innovative in all aspects of their concert presentation? In general, orchestras hold on to too many rules, conventions and behaviours - when to clap, what the musicians should wear, what the audience should wear, conductors not talking from the stage etc. The traditions, whilst part of the heritage of orchestras, can have the net effect of turning away new audience members. Threshold anxiety is a very real phenomenon for orchestras - uninitiated concertgoers tend to feel inferior and intimidated; consequently, this can contribute to them not going - simple as that; people will, unsurprisingly, avoid feeling uncomfortable and inadequate. Not to say that a sense of occasion and the heritage of the orchestral concert should be thrown away; this is part of the richness and depth of the art form. But - as a sector -  can we try and think more proactively about how and why we present our artform in a way that gives as many people as a chance to experience it? At a time when orchestras should be relentlessly building new audiences, we need to break down as many barriers as possible. #culturalleadership #futureorchestras

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This was an especially fun video to create for Millibar Robotics, posted last week on the 60th anniversary of the Beatles breakthrough performance on the Ed Sullivan Show. Editing together video and various sound sources reminds me of playing an organ, constantly adjusting the sound between phrases. I find myself using the same rules I used as an accompanist, supporting and enhancing melody, never over-powering. Leave a place for the singer, and the listener, to breathe and process. Create a certain energy level, and use it to pull the viewer/listener through the piece. Wonderful to engage some of that old muscle memory in a different medium. #automationindustry #create

My own preparation for winding down over the next couple of decades has started. Golf has been taken up, karting is on the agenda and last night I tried an orchestra for the first time. The London Symphony Orchestra have a "Half Six Fix" and it was mesmerising and really good value. What new thing are you going to try? #financialplanners #financialplanning #halfsixfix #lso

Neuroscientist, engineer, pianist, composer. Imagine what more innovation and creation could happen if K12 schools valued all the arts as much as they do math, science, and reading!! #artseducation #musiceducation #danceeducation #yourbrainonart #brainbodyconnection

200 years ago today, on 7 May 1824 in Vienna, Ludwig van Beethoven conducted the premiere of his 9th Symphony. It was therefore fitting today that we ended a two day workshop in #Tällberg by listening and watching a recording of a glorious performance at the Royal Albert Hall from the BBC Proms in 2012, with the West-Eastern Divan Orchestra and Daniel Barenboim. The early 1820s were a time of great upheavals and shifts, just like the 2020s. Here are some questions for us to reflect on now: 🎼 Which of today’s artistic creations will or should be celebrated in May 2224? 🎒 Of all the ideas, ideals and solutions that we hold dear today, which should we absolutely carry with us into the future… 🗑️ …and which should we leave behind or throw away? 🌏 And of course, what will the world - and the planet - look like in 200 years?

Good insight on going with the flow.

🎶 Finding Inspiration in Excellence: Lessons from the Chicago Symphony 🎻 This past weekend, I had the privilege of attending a performance by the renowned Chicago Symphony Orchestra. As the music filled the concert hall, I couldn't help but be reminded of the incredible dedication and discipline required to become a world-class musician. Behind every flawless performance lies countless hours of practice, unwavering determination, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. It's a testament to true mastery not achieved overnight but through consistent effort and a willingness to push boundaries. The same principle applies to our development, whether in our personal or professional lives. Like those musicians honing their craft, we must commit ourselves to continuous growth and improvement. It's the willingness to put in the work, even when it's challenging, that sets us apart and propels us toward success. So, as we embark on another week filled with opportunities and challenges, let's draw inspiration from the dedication of those who excel in their craft. Let's commit ourselves to practicing perseverance, determination, and excellence in everything we do. Because it's these qualities that truly make the difference in our journey towards personal and professional fulfillment. 🌟 Keep striving for excellence, and remember: the path to greatness is paved with practice and determination. 🌟 #Inspiration #Excellence #ChicagoSymphony #Practice #Determination #PersonalDevelopment #ProfessionalDevelopment #Perseverance

Why are the arts so important? Because they are an integral part of what it mean to be human, they are key to our mental wellbeing wether participating in them as an audience member or as a maker. How do you harness this wellbeing power for your employees? We can [email protected]