What Makes a Great Orchestra Player?

Being a great orchestra player is not just about playing your instrument. Of course you need to have the goods - intonation, rhythm, sound, and style. But beyond that what makes a great orchestra player is the pretty much the same as what makes a great friend.

Think about it. What makes a good friend? Someone who listens, who has a sense of give and take, someone who you respect. Someone who is pleasant and friendly. Someone you look forward to seeing.

Same is true of the orchestra. Onstage we want to sit next to someone who is aware of those around them. They are constantly adjusting so they blend in. They make eye contact or lean towards you to let you know that they’re with you. They don’t insist on their pitch or tempo. They don’t just put their head down and play their notes. They are in the moment with you reacting to what’s happening around them.

At the end of the day, I want to spend time with those with whom I can connect and have fun.