Episode

S2E1: Get prepared for the big picture

In this episode delve into the complexities of selecting repertoire, organizing logistics, and maintaining a balance between administrative tasks and artistic vision. We highlight how preparations vary depending on the context - be it school ensembles or professional orchestras - emphasizing the importance of effective leadership for a successful performance.

Join us as we examine the contrasting needs and planning demands in an educational setting versus a professional setting. We stress the importance of advanced planning and clear rehearsal schedules, particularly in a professional context where schedules may be set far in advance. We also underline the necessity for flexibility in a school or community setting. A crucial takeaway from our discussion is the importance of giving players a sense of preparedness and safety before a performance, which can be achieved by playing through the entire symphony without stopping.

Finally, we scrutinize the three stages of rehearsal and score study, shedding light on the value of understanding the overall structure of the piece before diving into details. The repetition and multiple run-throughs, while demanding, can lead to musicians feeling comfortable and confident in their performance. We wrap up our discussion by emphasizing the importance of intentional planning, clear communication, and a well-defined vision for a successful performance.

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CREDITS

Hosts: Ingrid Martin & Tom Grayden

Editing: Tom Grayden & Ingrid Martin

Music: The Crosswinds Ensemble

Recorded at the University of Melbourne

S2E7: Memorable Performances - Balancing Stability vs. Risk Taking

How do you plan for and reveal that extra level of energy in the performance and connect meaningfully with the audience? What's required to balance stability vs. risk-taking onstage? How can we best use limited sound-check time to instil confidence while meeting everyone's needs and preserving energy?

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S2E6: Final Rehearsals - Cultivating Confidence and Security

What's the goal of final rehearsals? How do we ensure preparedness while keeping the music fresh? How do we need to adapt our rehearsals to build confidence in groups that perform rarely vs. those that perform often? What's the value of practicing performing, rather than just rehearsing? We tackle all this and more in this episode focussed on final rehearsals and sound checks.

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S2E5: Fostering Engagement with Questions, Conviction & Repetition

How do you know when to keep working at a passage or just move on? How do you balance your own interpretation vs. making space for the musicians' ideas? What's the role of non-verbal communication in effective rehearsals? What might we learn from taking more notice of what's going on in the room?

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