Power of Inclusion – Summermusik: Motivating Musicians

“Programming has a big impact on our audience, and also on musicians and how they view us,” says Summermusik Executive Director Evan Gidley, speaking of resident ensemble Cincinnati Chamber Orchestra (CCO). He believes that experiencing different music, and adjusting performance style, is both challenging and rewarding to musicians. It instills a sense of purpose.

Music Director Eckart Preu consistently validates musicians’ input. He welcomes their programming ideas for ensemble concerts, their suggestions for orchestra repertoire, and their input during rehearsals.

“Summermusik is where I get to flex my creative musician muscles,” says Principal Flute Annie Darlin Gordon. “I relish the opportunity to help curate an ensemble performance knowing that I will have musician colleagues capable of anything I ask of them, support from the orchestra’s administration and leadership, and a loyal audience eagerly waiting to see what new, exciting thing we have to offer them.”

Summermusik occupies the month of August, with full orchestra each Saturday evening and smaller ensemble concerts throughout the month. “August is fun, less serious,” Gidley says, “so the atmosphere is more laid back. It’s like a reunion. And the pressure of shows in quick succession forces people to work together.” Contributing to the reunion vibe, CCO hosts a post-concert party at a nearby gallery for musicians, staff, board, and patrons after each Saturday concert. “A majority of musicians choose to attend,” says Gidley, “and some are often among the last to leave! It’s a nice way for everyone to unwind during a stressful month.”

The “We Are One” festival extends CCO programming into springtime, and this especially is where musicians get to explore music from other cultures. The festival’s mission: “to amplify under-consulted voices by acknowledging historical and contemporary inequities and celebrating unique cultures through music, art, and dialogue.” Themes have included “Hope,” telling immigrant and refugee stories; “Empower,” celebrating the Negro Spiritual; and “Water,” exploring both Native American and Asian Indian cultures.

CCO’s growing community engagement work is another source of motivation. Musicians play regularly at Ronald McDonald House, which provides comfort and support to families with children who are ill or injured. “We get great musician feedback on those.” While creative programming and musician input enhance their sense of belonging at the CCO, Gidley hastens to add that “everyone has a better experience if it’s not just about the music. Personal relationships are extremely important. Personal relationships make the work we do feel less like work and more like fun.”

Photo: Support from the orchestra’s administration and leadership gives Summermusik Principal Flute Annie Darlin Gordon the confidence needed to take artistic risks. Photo by Mark Lyons.