#33 - Richard Bartlett | Training Disagreeableness and Developing Taste
Feb 12, 2025
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Rich Bartlett, co-founder of Microsolidarity and The Hum, shares his insights on fostering high-trust communities and non-hierarchical organizations. He delves into the playful journey of musical expression, emphasizing the role of vocalization in creativity. Bartlett discusses personal boundaries in relationships and the transformative power of acting for emotional growth. He also explores cultural shifts in discourse, advocating for inclusive conversations, and shares his vision for a retreat center focused on individual development and community support.
Understanding music theory enhances skills by simplifying complex structures, making improvisation and composition more intuitive for beginners.
Using vocalization while playing instruments strengthens the connection between musical imagination and physical execution, enhancing expressiveness during improvisation.
Fostering a playful approach in music education allows for exploration and self-discovery, balancing joy and skill growth in personal expression.
Deep dives
The Power of Music Theory Reframing
Understanding music theory is pivotal for improving musical skills, and recent insights have highlighted the significance of simplifying complex structures. The book 'Improvise For Real' offers a fresh approach, making it accessible for beginners. By relating fundamental concepts to familiar elements, such as the major scale, musicians can explore improvisation and composition in a more intuitive manner. This paradigm shift leads to a more fluid connection between musical imagination and execution on instruments.
Connecting Voice and Instrument
Using one's voice as a bridge to instrument performance has proven to be a transformative technique for musicians. By singing notes while playing an instrument, musicians can strengthen the connection between their musical imagination and physical execution. This method enhances musicality, especially during improvisation, as it encourages a more instinctive and expressive playing style. Many renowned musicians utilize vocalization, illustrating its importance in fostering creativity and confidence.
Navigating Musical Education
Musical education often emphasizes skill acquisition over personal expression, creating tension between play and practice. A playful approach to music encourages exploration and self-discovery, leading to a more fulfilling learning experience. Recognizing the balance between maintaining joy in music while addressing skill deficits is essential for growth. By fostering a learning environment that values both play and practice, musicians can cultivate their unique styles without feeling constrained.
Embodied Awareness in Learning
Somatic awareness—understanding one's bodily sensations and responses—plays a crucial role in musical education and conflict resolution. Identifying and articulating feelings in high-stakes situations can empower musicians and individuals in confronting their preferences and boundaries. Developing an acute awareness of personal triggers promotes healthier interactions during conflicts, leading to more constructive outcomes. This approach fosters growth and understanding, enhancing both musical and personal development.
Rethinking Political Landscapes
Recent sociopolitical shifts have prompted discussions around inclusivity and bridging divides across varying perspectives. Embracing a more generous understanding of differing opinions can foster constructive dialogues and mutual respect. Those feeling politically homeless are encouraged to explore their values and engage with unaffiliated individuals to cultivate community and action. By embracing a post-woke mindset, individuals can contribute to a more balanced and constructive public discourse, moving beyond binaries.
Rich Bartlett helps people grow high-trust communities & decentralized organizations. He’s the co-founder the community building network Microsolidarity, and non-hierarchical management consultancy The Hum. He also co-runs Fight Wise an online course about developing courage in your relationships, standing up for yourself, skillfully navigating conflicts, and asking for what you want.