Everyday Leadership

Using Rebel Energy For Change In The Classic Music World With Karen Zorn
EPISODE 153 • SEASON 01:33:14

Karen Zorn, President of the Longy School of Music of Bard College, shares her journey as a classically trained pianist and her passion for creating a mindset shift in the classical music world. 


She discusses the importance of improvisation, embracing change, and encouraging individuality in music education. Karen also emphasizes the need for inclusivity and audience engagement in classical music performances. She reflects on her challenges in implementing her vision and the pushback she received. 


Despite the obstacles, Karen remains committed to preparing musicians to make a difference in the world.


She emphasizes the importance of telling your story and reframing narratives to avoid getting caught up in debates. Karen also discusses the partnership between Longy and the LA Philharmonic and its impact on validating the changes Longy was making. 


She highlights the next chapter for Longy, focusing on music as a healing art and the potential for musicians to make a difference in healthcare settings. Karen defines leadership as striving for better or change and valuing relationships and diversity of opinion.


Takeaways

  • Encourage individuality and artistic voice in music education.

  • Embrace change and innovation in the classical music world.

  • Create inclusive and welcoming concert experiences for all audiences.

  • Apply human-centred design principles to music education. Tell your story and focus on your own narrative instead of getting caught up in debates and criticism.

  • Reframe narratives to avoid being pulled into arguments and to maintain authenticity.

  • Partnerships with organizations that share your values can provide validation and open doors to new opportunities.

  • Music has the power to heal and can be utilized in healthcare settings to improve well-being and reduce stress.

  • Leadership involves striving for better or change, valuing relationships, and embracing diversity of opinion.


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All audio, artwork, episode descriptions and notes are property of Sope Agbelusi, for Everyday Leadership, and published with permission by ALIVE Podcast Network.