Before
we compare the Chief Executive Officer's (CEO) role
with that of the conductor of a symphony, it is imperative
that we comprehend the role of a CEO and also understand
what symphony is in this context and how the role of
a conductor in symphony is analogous to the role of
a CEO in an organization. We have witnessed on numerous
occasions that the conductor of a symphony gets the
most accolades, even though the conductor seems to contribute
little to the orchestra. The orchestra, mostly consisting
of singers and musicians, contribute directly to the
symphony, yet the conductor gets the applause. Likewise,
we see CEOs walk away with all accolades and glamour
for any noticeable achievement of the company whatsoever.
Although the functional managers directly contribute
to the organizational wealth and overall value, it is
the CEOs who get the `pat on the back'.
Does
an orchestra need a conductor for a symphony at all?
While some argue that as long as every musician has
detailed notes, instruction, and even pauses and breaks,
the conductor is of little help; some claim that the
role of a conductor is to synchronize the beginning
and the ending of the symphony, and maybe during the
longer breaks in the middle; and yet some others argue
that the role of a conductor is important only during
initial rehearsals. Whatever the opinion may be, it
is obvious that a conductor sets the direction, tempo
and beat of the symphony. However, this does not overrule
the exception of a restrictive practice of conductor-less
orchestra. Now the question is, do we need a conductor
in an orchestra or not?.
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