Music Ensembles and Sustainability: Part 3

In our third and final segment of Music Ensembles and Sustainability, we will consider how an ensemble can prepare for the departure of its members and leaders. In our first part of the series, we thought about whether a particular ensemble needs to be sustainable or not. In part two, we looked at obstacles to sustainability.

So, what are some strategies for maintaining sustainability through changing leadership and members?

1. Plan for it. Great organizations are always looking ahead. Yes, they are also looking back and reflecting on the work they have done, and making sure their current and future work is respectful of their past. But they are also looking ahead, planning for what might be around the next curve. This is probably the most important strategy for maintaining sustainability. An organization that is thinking ahead and flexible in the sight of challenges will be well equipped to continue their work and stay the course through changes of members or leadership. How do you get to be this kind of organization? You practice these kinds of things every day. You think ahead – 6 months, 1 year, 2 years, 5 years. You set goals. You consider new ideas, new projects, new initiatives, new partnerships. You practice being flexible when challenges arise. You create structures in your organization that allow for multiple people to understand the workings of the group, the procedures, the tasks.
2. Embrace Change. It’s one of those things that is simply inevitable. At some point, there will be change. How will your organization react and respond? If you practice embracing change and viewing change as an opportunity, you will develop a habit of staying the course and maintaining sustainability. Suppose a key member of your ensemble decides to leave the group. They are the most visible performer, the face of your ensemble. If you have practiced embracing change, you will view this change as an opportunity, not a huge obstacle that seems impossible to overcome. It will certainly be challenging, yes, but it will also be an opportunity.

For those that seek sustainable ensembles, it’s important to plan, look forward, be flexible, and create structures in your ensemble that make those inevitable changes easier to sustain. And, it’s important to embrace change – to know that change will come, to practice being open to change, and to view it as an opportunity.