orchestra21

Superb piece from The New Yorker medical science columnist Atul Gawande on how experienced surgeons might benefit from the type of coaching frequently employed by top athletes and musicians. A must-read for conductors, whose role – particularly in rehearsal work with players who are as seasoned in their craft as the doctors Gawande discusses – is in many ways analogous to that of a coach.

Musicians: After you read Gawade’s take consider whether you’d be interested in a coaching with me. I already offer conducting instruction/feedback via video chat and will be opening up to one-off sessions for instrumentalists later in the fall. [In Iowa I do in-person conducting lessons and instrumental, ensemble and vocal coaching.] More details will be available soon on a dedicated page at my site – until then feel free to express interest through my ask page.