Believe’s Post

How can arts leaders move beyond incremental change to truly transformative change? By studying the history of the indoor toilet, says David Maggs. "[In] the early 19th century [the promoters of indoor plumbing systems] encountered a surprising problem. People were reluctant to use them. The mere thought of going to the bathroom indoors made people extremely uncomfortable. This, of course, is unimaginable to us now, as the thought of going to the bathroom outdoors makes us extremely uncomfortable...The thought of bringing that smelly mess inside would have seemed like a ridiculous suggestion — which is why the topic is so relevant to our broader curiosity around transformative change. They could not imagine doing it, and we cannot imagine not doing it. That is transformative change. Before it happens, we cannot conceive of it; after it happens, we can’t conceive of its absence. That is change at the level of being." David Maggs, Toilets and Transformation #artsandculture #audiencedevelopment #artsmarketing #opera #orchestra #ballet #theater #orchestralmusic #operasingersofinstagram #conductors #conductorsofinstagram #orchestralmusicians #artsleadership #artsadmin #artsadministration

Listen to the interview.

Opera Philadelphia’s recent decision to introduce a pay-what-you-can model, with tickets starting as low as $11, has generated considerable buzz over the past week. 🎟️ Spearheaded by countertenor Anthony Roth Costanzo, this new initiative has been praised for its potential to attract new audiences by making opera more accessible. Indeed, within 48 hours of launching this new model, Opera Philadelphia sold nearly 6,000 tickets—4,539 of them at the $11 level, and two-thirds of them new-to-file ticket buyers. Plus, 440 patrons added a voluntary donation to their purchase. What does the customer-centric lens have to say about Opera Philadelphia's new $11 ticket model? 🔍 I'll be exploring this question later today in my newsletter. Because in our digital, pluralistic, world where the customer holds ultimate control, the customer-centric lens is a must for every strategy conversation. P.S. Not already subscribed? Join 770 forward-thinking arts leaders who are shaping the future of the arts by leveraging powerful innovation frameworks. 🚀 Click the link in my profile to subscribe. #artsandculture #audiencedevelopment #artsmarketing

Check out this fascinating blog post on El Anatsui, one of Africa's foremost artists, and his lesser-known passion for collecting vinyl. While he's renowned for his breathtaking metallic tapestries crafted from bottle caps, few know about his musical talent from his university days as a trumpet player. Discover more about this multifaceted artist here: https://ift.tt/ZsGPhHE

“Music Therapy Works” Music therapy is an effective therapeutic approach because it engages multiple areas of the brain, fostering emotional, cognitive, and physical healing. Music has a unique ability to stimulate brain regions involved in mood regulation, memory, and motor control. For instance, rhythm can help patients with motor disorders improve their movement and coordination, while melodies and harmonies can evoke memories and emotions, aiding in the treatment of conditions like dementia and depression. This multi-faceted engagement makes music therapy a versatile tool for addressing a wide range of health issues. Another reason music therapy works is its capacity to provide a non-verbal outlet for expression. For individuals who find it difficult to articulate their feelings or experiences through words, music offers an alternative medium to convey emotions and thoughts. This can be particularly beneficial for children, individuals with autism, or those who have experienced trauma. By creating, listening to, or moving to music, patients can process and express complex emotions in a safe and supportive environment, which can lead to significant emotional breakthroughs and healing. Furthermore, music therapy promotes social connection and a sense of community. Participating in group music therapy sessions can help individuals develop social skills, enhance communication, and build relationships. This is especially important for people dealing with social anxiety, isolation, or those recovering from mental health issues. The shared experience of making music fosters a sense of belonging and support, which can be instrumental in improving overall mental health and well-being. The communal aspect of music therapy not only helps individuals feel less alone but also reinforces the therapeutic benefits through mutual encouragement and understanding.

In a time of rising challenges and complexities, education is the most essential transformative power for a better future for all.

Friday Arts … the world is still not improving, so let’s keep talking about other things that are more fun! Springboard Opera had its first night out last weekend. And what a night it was. The first ever Springboard Opera Gala in fabulous Brisbane. And in the spirit of doing it differently, it was opera, but not opera. Some, but not all, of the Springboard Opera young (and talented) human beans were introduced to Brisbane in a fabulous star-studded night of music, theatre and general cool-ness. If you missed out, you’ll have to wait for the next Springboard Thing. And because no man is an island – thanks for the words, John Donne – we are not so much creating an arts organisation as a 21st century Arts Ecosystem that thrives on innovation. Ecosystems imply lots of interconnectedness. Between all the parts. Side-to-Side and Front-to-Back. So the innovation needs to flow Side-to-Side and Front-to-Back. And to make this work, all those parts matter equally. One of the things that was said at the Gala was “Singing optional”. That is because we need skills and INNOVATION everywhere. And with that – a bit of fractured Dr Suess, this time – Oh, the places We’ll go! If you are up for a bit of Amazeballs stuff… Come down and see us at https://lnkd.in/gXgNVTGg – it is going to be WILD! Singing Optional. #Future #TransformationalLeadership #LeadershipDevelopment #Directors #Technology #Performingarts #YourNetworkForLife Leslie Martin Luisa Tarnawski Gheorja Haidley

#WomensHistoryMonth: Dive into the inspiring journey of Laura Eakman, as she transforms Rockford’s musical landscape, proving that with passion and dedication, every note can lead to a symphony of change. #Rockford #Empowerment #risetoyourpotential Check the comments section for a link to Laura's story!

What might make a good first post? I’ll go on a hunch that it has to be both interesting and insightful. I guess a short read might be nice too for engagement. So here goes… This is the striking (tearing down) of a stage extension. One of the many hidden aspects of theatre/concert production. These pits serve to store the unused seats and double as the orchestra pit where musicians play during theatrical performances. In our case, we had it raised to stage level so that our performers could be closer to audience members. One of the things I love about concerts is that behind (and underneath) the stage, there is another “orchestra” that aims to go unoticed. An orchestra of staging, sound, lights, and coordination. A great metaphor for how our most public moments of triumph are underwritten by the silent efforts of the many who have helped us there.

From a US Army article: "Psychological danger encompasses fear of negative repercussions or exclusion." What are our own signs of psychological danger in music? 👉 If I don't perform well, I will be fired. 👉 If I need help or admit I don't know, I will seem weak or dumb. 👉 If I speak up about something, I will be punished. 👉 If I disagree with the conductor, I will be on their bad side. Let's challenge these by helping our musicians feel more safe in our orchestra and opera workplaces. https://lnkd.in/gkZGJnb9 #leadership #arts #leader #conductor #music #musicians #artsadministration #conductorasceo #orchestra #opera #culture #psychologicalsafety #belonging #safety