A musical ensemble may well be the most tightly knit team there is. It’s your task – often with little preparation time – to deliver a convincing and unified interpretation of a piece of music. Music is the connecting force, which is why many ensembles focus primarily on the repertoire in their collaboration. There is always room to refine interpretation, equality, intonation, and balance.

But what happens when there are differing opinions or perspectives within your ensemble? Or when members have different preferences for how to rehearse? How much should be fixed through agreements, and how much room do you leave for the moment of truth – the concert? Who takes (or claims) the lead?

It can be eye-opening to take a fresh look at your rehearsal methods. This process may open up more space for input from all group members. The chance of disagreement may increase as a result! Step two – working on communication within the group – then becomes essential. But even that’s not the end. Every disagreement will be audible on stage. So will any compromise made reluctantly.

When coaching ensembles, I focus on collaboration – and everything that comes with it.

• How do the members communicate?
• What role patterns are being adopted?
• How is tension or disagreement dealt with?
• And how do you arrive together at a convincing performance?

Unlike in a political debate, where a consensus model is often used and a compromise is considered acceptable, it’s important to realize that on stage, only one interpretation, one vision, one sound, one final result can be heard.
This final step in collaboration is about going beyond your personal viewpoint, making choices, and finding the path toward unity.

During the coaching sessions, we simulate a rehearsal. The goal is to increase awareness of habits and role patterns in communication. By introducing new communication tools, space can then be created to make different choices that lead to greater equality, respect, and constructive collaboration.

In my ensemble coaching, I guide the process of artistic development, especially with young professional musicians. I know better than anyone how both individual ambition and group development are essential parts of shaping an ensemble that can distinguish itself in a natural, convincing, and authentic way.

Other important aspects of my coaching for musicians include rehearsal techniques and stage presence.