Leadership requires an element of bravery, defined as brave spirit or conduct; courage; or valor – all characteristics that are called upon with the high demands often placed on a leader.
As we near the end of 2023, I have been pondering the power of art and artists who have been great leaders. There have been so many, over hundreds of years and from all over the world – among them artists under cultural, racial, or gender suppression. I am moved when museums share works of art, symphony halls share works of music, salons share works of poetry – art that emerged, influenced, and healed humanity despite constraining conditions. As leaders, what can we learn from this tenacity, focus, and passion to achieve excellence despite great adversity?
To close the year, this Leadership Insight of the Month focuses on one story of artistic leadership and bravery. It is a reminder of the magnificence of humanity and how leaders are influencers, sometimes even beyond their own understanding.
Ludwig van Beethoven composed his last piano concerto, Piano Concerto No. 5 (“Emperor)” in 1809 while Vienna was under invasion from Napoleon’s armies. With the ever-present news of invasions today, we can envision how terrifying this might have been for Beethoven and his friends. To seek shelter, Beethoven moved from his top-floor apartment in Vienna to the basement of his brother Kasper’s home, pressing pillows to his ears to protect his hearing.
In these conditions, he wrote what is considered by some to be his most beautiful piano concerto. Nearly deaf, a profound loss for a musical genius, and with his home and loved ones in great danger and chaos, he wrote a work of genius with “ethereal orchestral effects,” “from which the finale bursts into life with all colors blazing.” Out of extreme hardship, came beauty and inspiration.
As I listen to this music today, I too pause and marvel at the conditions it was borne out of. As you embark on a New Year with its many professional demands, amidst a world in need of leadership and vision, I hope you will also draw inspiration from this recording of the “Emperor.” How do we lead from that inner knowing voice? What do we take into consideration when we make a decision that affects so many? What drives us and fires the passion to achieve something against all odds?
Under great duress, Beethoven composed a masterpiece. He created something that touched the human heart, and he led, unknowingly, by showing the resiliency of the human spirit.
Happy New Year to you all. Wishing you peace and fulfillment.
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