402 - 10 Clues Your Pipe Major Sucks (Dojo Conversations Episode 72)

Pipe band can be a source of joy, fun, and fulfilment. But the person in charge matters… and it can be really demotivating when weaknesses in their leadership start to affect your enjoyment of this hobby we all know and love…

This week, we’re revisiting an article Andrew wrote in 2020 called, you guessed it, “10 Clues Your Pipe Major Sucks”. Despite the clickbait title, the point is really about leadership – in a pipe band setting, or any other. Andrew and Jim dive into their own experiences playing under various pipe majors, good and bad, and the importance of leadership quality, fostering talent, and creating a positive band culture. But it can be easier said than done – and a good leader also needs good followers…

Want to sign up for Dojo U Insider - your daily dose of bagpiping education, delivered right to your pocket? Check it out: https://pipersdojo.com/insider

Got a question for a future episode? Leave a comment or email us at [email protected]!

This week, we cover:
01:15 The Allure of Hip New Pipe Majors and Band Dynamics
03:58 Addressing the Challenges of Suboptimal Pipe Majors
05:46 Exploring the 'Ten Clues Your Pipe Major Sucks' Article
06:25 Big Fish Syndrome and Leadership Flaws
14:10 The Problem with a Suffocating Repertoire
16:16 Disrespecting Band Members' Time
17:39 Cutting Down Emerging Talent
18:02 Navigating Talent and Leadership in Bands
18:35 The Challenges of Being Musically Gifted in School
19:25 The Power Dynamics in Teaching and Leadership
19:51 Fostering Talent vs. Resentment in Leadership
20:16 Personal Reflections on Supporting New Talent
20:55 The Joy and Frustration of Repetitive Practice
21:36 Recognizing and Avoiding Leadership Pitfalls
23:29 The Importance of Delegation and Trust in Leadership
26:41 Understanding the Bigger Picture in Leadership
29:53 Setting Realistic Expectations and Fostering Growth
33:22 Reflections on Leadership and Followership