It is not really going to come as a surprise that after the holidays have passed, the long winter, with its limited daylight hours and inclement weather, people can be put into a melancholy mood. This happens for many folks every year. And then there is this season. Add those seasonal “norms” to our current pandemic crisis, mix it with uncertainty and you get all the ingredients for a mental health challenge like nothing we have seen recently. While I was in Wichita in November for the symphony concerts, I met with … Continue Reading

What is missing in music industry’s board meetings, orchestra meetings, faculty meetings, marketing meetings, artistic planning meetings, etc.? Missing is the ability or desire to listen and add to an idea. Basically, a “Yes, And” philosophy where teamwork, embracing failures or upsets, and a genuine support of everyone on the team allows a group of people to reach a better conclusion or solution. It’s an artform that is allows the best kind of flexibility and nimbleness. I wish these skills were taught in college! So when Texas State University orchestra director, Jacob … Continue Reading

As many orchestras begin returning to the stage, here are a few etiquette guidelines to think about: Do not complain on social media about wearing a mask Everyone knows they are difficult to breathe in, cause acne, hard to perform in, and uncomfortable. Even if you are joking, making light of the situation, be cognizant that there are many orchestras that are not performing. Colleagues in orchestras not playing will not take kindly to your witticisms and asides about a mask because it’s likely they would be more than happy to be … Continue Reading

When Arts Capacity first started the interactive recital idea several years ago for prison concerts, it was to foster a more engaging and inclusive way of offering a musical performance. Going into the prisons, we knew that this recital environment would be one of the very few places prisoners could access and address their feelings. It also was a time for them to share thoughts and reactions to the music, since between each piece we would have a two-way conversation about the music and how it affected them. After each concert we … Continue Reading

“I didn’t know how much I would miss art and culture until it was gone.” Those words were from a prisoner who attended a recital I gave back in 2017. He explained to me that at one time he was a regular symphony subscriber and he used to take art and music for granted until he ended up in prison. His words have been echoing in my head these past several days as quarantines take effect for us all, essentially imprisoning us in our homes. As we all watch businesses temporarily close, … Continue Reading