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My name is Justin Bischof and I am the Chair of the Conductors Retreat at Medomak Board, a three-time alumnus of the Retreat, and an orchestral and opera conductor based in New York City. I am writing this short note to you, as you are a friend of the Retreat, as we celebrate the beginning of our 25th year.
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Our illustrious and beloved founder, Kenneth Kiesler, had a vision 25 years ago to offer an intensive summer conducting program, based in his beloved childhood idyllic Maine, for conductors at every stage of their journey. Ken envisioned conducting coaching, instruction, and experience with a professional/resident piano sextet, followed by the opportunity to rehearse and perform with a full, professional orchestra. Participants would learn to become resonant with the music, then expressing that resonance; they would develop technique that is clear, fluid, expressive, and specific and would learn to share leadership, which empowers individuals and the group.
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It is safe to say, that a quarter of a century and over 500 conductors later, that his mission has been a phenomenal success with the Conductors Retreat recognized worldwide as a premiere conductor training program. Our alumni are spread out around the world in a myriad of leadership positions with orchestras, opera companies, choirs and educational institutions at all levels. We are all part of the global Conductors Retreat community and, as such, we want to show our gratitude and appreciation to Ken for having conceived and so masterfully executed his pioneering vision for the conducting world.
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To this end, we must now look to the next 25 years as we continue to support Ken’s vision. Sadly, so much of our profession is rife with attitudes and actions that run contrary to the Retreat’s message of engaging and inclusive leadership. Unhealthy narcissism, run away egos, and lack of empathy do not lead to a healthy relationship with musicians, boards and our audiences. Conductors building healthy and productive partnerships with these constituents is part of what we, as conductors, learn at the Retreat. Of course, developing and nurturing a keen musical sensibility is the basis of all the work we do at the Retreat.
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With all of this in mind, I ask that you, as an alumnus, take a moment and truly consider a gift to the Retreat as we begin this 25th year and embark on our next 25. Any gift will be gratefully received and appreciated.
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Conductors Retreat at Medomak
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