Art of Collaboration

This book is an invitation for all who aspire to the highest level of ensemble artistry and wish to work more productively and joyfully within a musical ensemble. The concepts and techniques included help artists find their own unique vocabulary and tools to refine their music making process and learn how as a team to direct their group endeavors. The book offers a systematic approach to individual preparation for rehearsal, score study, planning and implementing a constructive and effective rehearsal, and the interpretive process. The authors address tension and conflict within groups, including strategies for working well together and creating an empathetic and healthy environment for rehearsals and performances. Approaches are highlighted for researching and discovery regarding the context, character and meaning of musical works and as well as cultivating vital collaboration with living composers. The final chapters include proven practical techniques, organized by their intended purpose for everyday use in rehearsals and teaching. Based on more than 35 years of rehearsing, performing, and teaching by the Cavani Quartet, and inspired by the authors' mentors, teachers and students, these essential techniques are designed to give each ensemble member an equal voice in the interpretive process while solving technical issues. Topics include cueing and breathing, rhythmic alignment and ensemble, intonation, sound production, projecting expression, strategic listening, and balance. The final chapter includes a capstone technique called LBAD (Live, Breathe, and Die) that heightens the connection between ensemble members through nonverbal communication. Video demonstrations of selected techniques are included on the companion website.

Annie Fullard, violinist and founding member of the Cavani String Quartet, serves as Director of Chamber Music and Sidney M Friedberg Chair at The Peabody Conservatory, Johns Hopkins University, as well as Distinguished Artist and Chair of Chamber Music at The Robert McDuffie Center for Strings at Mercer University. Her performance and teaching career includes innovative chamber music residency work in all fifty states and abroad, including the Juilliard Summer Arts Program in Shanghai, China. Dorianne Cotter-Lockard holds a PhD in Human and Organizational Systems from Fielding Graduate University, an M.B.A. from New York University, and a Bachelor of Music degree from the Eastman School of Music. Her research involves team collaboration, leadership, coaching, and music education.