The Orpheus Orchestra is a unique full function, Grammy winning, twenty eight (28) member, Orchestra. Orpheus is considered unique because it is comprised of world class musicians who perform and practice without a conductor. Because of this fact Orpheus has been described as being leaderless, but this is not the case as each member is a leader and is given the opportunity to contribute to the innovation and creativity of the Orchestra.
This type of structure is achieved through smaller core groups whose members change regularly from not only concert to concert but piece to piece as each group is focused on a particular piece of music. Orpheus as has a concertmaster who plays the role of captain which also changes from concert to concert. Orpheus unique organizational structure has helped to promote trust and communication between members that has gained recognition from several large companies; as its members have a high stratification in their job unlike in most orchestra.
Question 1 Several large companies like Kraft Foods can gain from observing Orpheus’s. Large organizations thrive on motivating employees to be creative, innovative and productive and the structure of Orpheus promotes this type of behavior as it has eliminated hierarchical control that prevents creativity and promoted dissatisfaction. By observing Orpheus these large organizations learn how to promote open communication and accountability for decision making that can lead to organizational success.
Question 2 The logic behind Orpheus rotating concertmasters is to ensure every member is given equal opportunity to contribute to the success of the orchestra and allow for fresh ideas and direction to be presented to the group. The rotation of the concertmaster, also allows for each member to have the opportunity to develop their leadership skills as well as the chance to be in a supportive position.
Question 3 Some of the substitutes for permanent leadership that exist in Orpheus are:
1.The establishment of core groups that is used to formulate and interpret the direction of each concert piece.
2.Concertmasters, who are responsible for running rehearsals, be the voice of reason during discussions amount group members, providing resolutions to disagreements and ensuring the smooth running of concerts.
3.The person who performs the “sound check” before each concert to hear how each piece sound from the perspective of the concert goer and provides feedback to the concertmaster, core group and other members of Orpheus. All these substitutes play the supportive leadership role encompassed in the role played by the conductor of an orchestra but are performed by several different persons in the Orpheus Orchestra.
