Last in a Series
This is the fourth and final post in a series of articles about the pillars of respect that are essential for any great musical ensemble. Once again, our thanks go out to the members of the New World Youth Symphony Orchestra. They participated in a lively discussion with my wife, Noelle, and me about what contributes to successful music making. The four pillars are:
Respect for the Music
Respect for the Conductor
Respect for your Colleagues
Respect for Yourself
This last pillar may be the most important because, without it, the others are much harder to attain. The other three lists can be found at the links shown above.
How to Show Respect for Yourself
- Be positive
- Have confidence
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help
- Don’t downplay your abilities
- Don’t let your seating audition define you as a person
- Practice to the best of your ability
- Enjoy the experience!
- Don’t settle for less than your potential
- Get adequate sleep
- Take care of your body with proper nutrition
- Prepare for auditions and performances the same way an athlete does
- Take care of your instrument
This list, along with the three previous in this series, came from a group of young musicians who demonstrated wisdom and insight far beyond their years. While learned in a musical setting, these traits translate to any environment that involves other people, proving once again that music teaches us lessons well beyond the concert hall.