Conductor as Transformational Leader - By Hugh Ballou

Examine the word Transform. It is not merely change, or we would use that word. It is a verb with an expanded vision and is much more transcendent. It implies a deeper, more fundamental alteration of our very form (trans – form). The continuing process of transformation begins with the moment of inspiration and continues in us through times of action, rest, and reflection. The conductor is in a unique position to effect and change lives positively for the faith journey. Musical conductors are fine-tuned instruments.

Building a choral ensemble as transformation

Conductors understand transformation experientially. The very nature of our work is that of transformation.

A group of singers shows up for rehearsal. They come to sing -- each with a different perspective and possibly a different level of talent. The skilled choral conductor listens, instructs, motivates, encourages, and affirms the changes that are necessary to mold this unrelated group of singers into a unified sound. The product is called an ensemble. We strive for that unity as an ensemble each time we rehearse or perform.

The magic of transformation is absolutely necessary in the world of music. Transformation happens not by chance but by intention, not only from the leader, but from the participants as well. The results are cumulative. Once the sense of ensemble is achieved and experienced first hand, it can be believed.

So why are we not committed to building that sense of ensemble in all that we undertake? Maybe it's an education issue for those whom we lead. Maybe it's a lack of understanding that this is a transferable concept from musical groups to other groups.

Why is that concept so foreign to all of us? And why does the concept seem unattainable? We can believe in the universal power of transformation. Are we willing to try? Are we willing to teach?

Becoming a Transformational Leader

Transform means change. How does the leader inspire, enable, and empower others to bring change into an organization? By encouraging, sharing, coaching, trusting, modeling, valuing, reinforcing, and many others. Being a Transformational Leader is similar in many ways to being a Charismatic Leader. The major difference is the focus of the Transformational Leader on working through people and not through one's own power.

The Transformational Leader produces through people. The ideal model for this is the choral ensemble. The chorus is inspired and enabled by the enthusiasm and charisma of the director/leader. There is a shared vision because they are working from the same piece of music as interpreted by the conductor. They are empowered to produce to the best of their ability by the positive direction of their leader. There is constant nurture and encouragement, both verbally and visually. The role of the leader is to model as well as inspire and encourage.

Building Leaders

Get to know all the people in the group over which you have leadership responsibility. Know their skills and desires. Know who can do what task and who will likely want to do what task. A leader must be an example of the traits they expect their volunteers and staff to manifest in their duties. A good leader must also know what to ask from people and where to assign them. Do not expect a duck to act like an eagle. All of the positive modeling in the world will not change that kind of reality.

Leadership is about relationship and personal fulfillment. If they feel affirmed and you have earned the right to ask through relationship, then they will be more willing to do more for you.

Build leaders by matching tasks with a person's skills and desires, by giving clear directions, by giving all the needed support, and finally, by following up with support and affirmation for a job well done.

Surround yourself with successful people

If you want to constantly improve your skills and your efficiency, then associate with people you admire or from whom you can learn. If you have trouble with efficiency -- if you think that you waste time -- then do not associate with others who have not learned to use their time efficiently. If someone is constantly trying to catch up with their duties or is constantly complaining about not having enough time to get things done, then they will most likely not be the person who can help you. Every day has the same number of hours for each of us. We must figure out for ourselves just how to use that time. Associate with people who have balanced schedules, who are busy, but who know how to organize their time and their tasks so that life is not constantly out of control.

Learn to grow by learning to learn from the actions of others who you admire.

About the Author:

As author of 5 books on Transformational Leadership, Hugh Ballou works as executive coach, process facilitator, trainer, and motivational speaker teaching leaders in many diverse fields how to use fine-tune skills employed every day by orchestral conductors. For more information about Hugh and his newest book, "Transforming Power," visit http://www.hughballou.com