We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Eric Jacobsen a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Eric, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Can you talk to us about how you learned to do what you do?

Though there are many ways to often get a quick answer, there is no shortcut for learning a craft. Everyone has their own speed in which they absorb information and how they become a more whole person. That being said, if I could go back and do certain things differently, I would have worked harder sooner. It seems that, in our field, those that had parents that drove them or that were internally self-motivated at a young age (like 7-14 years old) have physical abilities that seem more innate, but actually are just worked on. Also, I would have learned to play the piano!

I think above all tangible skills, empathy and awareness are essential, especially for conducting. Having a listening ear, being able to stay aware and adjustable, and making sure the orchestra’s needs are met all contribute to producing the best artistic experience in a performance.

For me, consistency and internal focus were a big obstacle at an early age. My mom passed away when I was a child, which left me untethered during my developmental years. And though I would have been a different person if she were around, the infrastructure and support that was set up around me gave me the opportunity to look at things in a different way, which became instrumental to my growth as a human and a musician.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I conduct orchestras! I’ve been in the music world my entire life, beginning as a cellist, where I spent a number of years in a string quartet called Brooklyn Rider, touring all over the world. After time, I morphed into a conductor, where I am now the Music Director of the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra, the Virginia Symphony Orchestra, and The Knights, a collective of adventurous musicians performing primarily in New York City and surrounding areas. I also guest conduct throughout the year which is a really fun and unique experience. I feel so grateful for the opportunities I have and also feel proud, knowing that I work really hard at an attempt to be not just good, but great. I know that having a music directorship is also important in that you become a community leader of sorts. I really feel like part of my role, and something I am passionate about, is being an advocate for the arts and for the quality of social life in a city and community.

What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?

This is such a good question and something I feel is so important. My simple answer is to go see concerts of professional musicians, artists, and creators. Of course everyone should create art, but I feel it is especially important to support those who have committed themselves fully to the arts in a professional sense. It is a hard profession but something we can all enjoy, learn from, and experience together. The more we give to culture in our society, the more that society is able to give back to us. And of course, a city with a vibrant arts scene is a city that you and I want to live in, so it is essential to contribute to that art.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

For many years, I was making a living as a touring string quartet musician. When I was 20, if I was sure I was able to make a living doing that, I would have felt like I was successful and would be comfortable and happy. However, as I got older and had the desire to conduct, choosing to step away from that string quartet to pursue it without knowing what my future would be was a huge pivot and leap of faith. I knew I would need to work very hard at it in order to be good at it. It is hard to explain because I really was not sure how it was going to play out, but I felt innately that I knew I needed to do it. And of course, I am so glad I did! I think a huge part of life and growth is knowing when to pivot and knowing when to jump into something full steam ahead, trusting that you are making the right decision.

Contact Info:

• Website: http://www.jacobseneric.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ejacobsenmusic/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ejacobsenmusic/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCB0-wg3UVHBtnuHZ0LipTaA