| MB,
I can't really say that at this stage of the game that I have. It's quite the opposite in an orchestra like this. Especially with our particular MD. He keeps everything well in line and still expects you to take risks. It's a great balance.
To your question about how to deal with it, you have to take the bull by the horns and be a great section leader. That means:
Getting along with your section and the principals of the nearby sections
Knowing how to give instruction quickly, efficiently, and like a gentleman
Being prepared so you can lead by example
Showing people that there is merit to the idea that there's a difference between one, two, and three fortes
Knowing when to speak and when to shut up
It's very tricky, MB. There's a balance to claiming ownership of an ensemble, musically speaking and a good principal has to recognize that conductors come and go but the band/orchestra will always remain.
ML |