Abstract
We describe the leadership activities of symphony orchestra conductors with an aesthetic analysis. In contrast to a popular understanding of a conductor as an individual hero, we depict leadership as an ongoing relational process between the conductor and the musicians. Drawing on our field studies of four symphony orchestras and the literatures of music organizations, organizational aesthetics and aesthetic leadership, we develop three dimensions to study the leadership of conductors: relational listening, aesthetic judgment and kinaesthetic empathy. Our analysis contributes to leadership theory by emphasizing the importance of aesthetic elements, processes, embodiment and work practices.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
