We’ve always said that what we do is not rocket science: people should be shown this stuff while they are still at school. Turns out we weren’t the only ones thinking this.
The musicians at Guildhall are some of the brightest and best in the world. They are studying to hone their craft to international standards. All of them have expectations of leaving to work professionally and to make a living from their art.
Reality may be less optimisitic. They are entering a highly competitive arena, one that forces them to compete with a global talent pool. Jobs in orchestras in their specific instrument may not come up every year. It may be necessary to work overseas. It may be necessary to teach between freelance jobs. There is always a risk of injury, or of falling out of love with the lifestyle. On the one hand students are encouraged to aim high, on the other we need to make sure they are equipped to adapt and modify their approach if plan a does not come off.
In truth there are many options open to them. While at Guildhall they learn to teach, develop management and promotion skills, and are exposed to the other roles they could take in the arts world. As part of their degree they are required to put aside time to reflect on their options and consider alternatives. Frequently students pay only lip service to this task, which is where we come in.
Working with a much younger client group than usual, People Who Do modified their existing planning tool for the Guildhall students. During an intense day we asked them to reflect on their acheiments and skills so far, to map out their ideal professional path and then to consider alternative options, a series, tailored to their guiding principles and what they felt their purpose was. The result was a great deal more clarity and focus as well as realistic optimism for their futures. The students were a delight to work with, embracing the tool and the challenges it posed whole heartedly. They took a great deal from it and so did we.
Here is some the feedback we received from the students:
“It will help me become more driven again. It was refreshing.” (HW)
“At different points [I felt] inspired and intimidated. The structure is something I can use for the rest of my life.” (JH)
“On fire! Couldn’t stop writing.” (DO)
“I really enjoyed the first session and found it very therapeutic. The second section was a lot harder and I didn’t want to do it. But I found that it really made me face up to what I have ahead of me, whereas I usually ignore until I can’t any longer.” (EJP)
We’ll be returning soon to explore courses for students and alumni.
