Week 5: The University Orchestra Leader

Have you ever watched someone who loves what they do, and see how they bring other people into the joy of their work? I saw that happen last night, when I attended a Symphony Orchestra concert at an East Coast university.

The performance was outstanding! The students are talented and hard working for sure, but there is another key factor in why the group is so good -- the director absolutely loves what he does, and he knows how to bring out the best in these aspiring musicians.

This professor is an expert in his field and a genuinely caring man. He is a teacher, a mentor and an inspiration to his students. He pushes them to challenge themselves, and they rise to the occasion under his guidance.

Last night's program included some difficult pieces such as a Shostakovich symphony with numerous solos. The group received a lengthy and well-deserved standing ovation (and it wasn't just because family members were in the audience). We were cheering for all the performers, and we were cheering for this terrific guy who supports our kids' growth as musicians and, even more importantly, as people.

Photo by Manuel Nägeli on Unsplash