by Will Wlizlo
Although we typically think of the titans of industry and leaders of the
free world as products of the military or an ivy league MBA program, for an unconventional leader
we might look to the fine arts. “Theater, music and the fine arts all require,
undeniably, an above-average level of creativity,” writes Miller-McCune’s
Ritch K. Eich. “But they also require the type of discipline, passion and
commitment that can be extremely valuable in many areas of business that are
now floundering.”
Eich’s favorite example—not to toot any fine art’s horn exclusively—is
found at the front of a marching band:
Under [bandmaster William] Revelli’s direction, the Michigan Marching
Band was the first to use original scores for their band shows and employ
synchronized music and movements. They were highly praised for their precision,
formations and style. Revelli was tough on his young band members and would not
accept mediocrity in his organization. His exceptionally high standards called
each member to a higher commitment, not only to their music, but also in all
areas of their lives. He looked at the band as an antidote to juvenile
delinquency.
Translating the same qualities he exhibited in rehearsals and on the
field, and looking at how he made everyone in his band reach for their greatest
potential, there is no doubt that he would have made an excellent corporate
leader had he chosen that path.
