The orchestra is traditionally organised hierarchically, and one is often confronted with the prejudice that democratic work in the orchestra is not possible. In fact, collective, democratic, or collaborative work in orchestral structures is often difficult to implement because the necessary ‘know-how’ is lacking in professional and youth orchestras.

Since its inception, the Stegreif Orchestra has articulated a new understanding of collective musical collaboration, generally working without a conductor and creating opportunities for individual talents, which often remain hidden in a large ensemble, to shine.

In this session, we aim to share our experiences with collective leadership—both in planning and in the artistic creative process, present concrete strategies and methods for project development, rehearsal direction, and concert programming, and make interactive exercises on group dynamics and structure tangible.