Leadership Lessons from Music
I started giving trombone lessons this year. It’s an eye-opening experience.
In my 20yrs of playing trombone, there are two different kinds of music teachers that stuck out to me:
1. A teacher who is harsh, firm, and demanding.
2. A teacher who is empathetic, kind, and listens.
Imagine which kind of mentor or colleague you would prefer to work with…
I’ve learned from both of these teachers and at the time, I didn’t see how crucial each experience would be for my growth.
I studied abroad in Italy and distinctly remember a lesson with teacher #1. He was a prominent trombonist across France and Turin. He stood in my face and told me how terrible I was at the trombone. "Why do you even play!?" I was shocked. Hurt. Angry.
"I'm not that bad, that's why I'm here," I thought.
Self doubt kicked in…maybe he was right? I practiced harder to prove him wrong.
Back in the US, my other teacher (#2) led by example. He listed, coached, and gave actionable advice…without yelling. He used imagery to help express musical ideas.
Across industry, sports, and parenting, there are plenty of people that might improve with teaching style #1. They seem to take the anger and difficult work environment and use it to improve. Maybe they are out to prove something. But what kind of trauma does that leave you with?
Style #2 is my preference. I even bring the way my US trombone teacher coached me into all types of settings: in work, how I parent, and how I teach trombone now.
Leading with empathy and servant leadership has produced better results in my experience.
I’m grateful for my teaching this year as it forces me to check my own work as well. I even get to hone how I communicate certain thoughts with students in ways they understand. As a teacher, you need to foster a sense of responsibility, purpose, and inspiration for the student to keep playing and communicate in a way they feel valued. I’ve seen this reduces burnout, too.
While my stress levels increase each time I recall lessons with teacher #1, I think fondly back to working with teacher #2. I actively work on continuing teaching styles with a positive temperament and patience because that's what students and colleagues deserve.
Music has challenged me to be a better communicator, to listen with intent, and build trust. Ultimately, it’s made me a better leader.