A Symphony of Choices

CHAPTER 6CHOOSING YOUR RULES OF ENGAGEMENT

Jerry wants to get the symphony to adopt direct deposit for payment. The current system requires two signatures on a check that is often not ready until the Monday after the concert. The players are not happy with this arrangement, and sometimes they receive checks a week or more after the concert. To implement this new program, Jerry must get approval from the board and get people's banking information (some don't have bank accounts and must set one up). There is buy‐in from the players, but the conductor does not want to give up rehearsal time to allow Jerry to explain the changes and get people to fill out bank forms. The implementation is a little bumpy during the first concert, and there are a few checks that need to be written. Also, Jerry had not factored in sub‐players who might not have had time to fill out their bank info and get into the system.

Jerry slips and injures his arm. He can't play, but he can continue to work in his new position.

Linda apologizes for her recent slips in behavior. She is home more. Corey and Linda help Jerry at home. Laura becomes more involved in volunteer work and is not at home as much as she used to be.

“I don't see any fractures,” said the ER doctor. “But I believe you have torn your rotator cuff.”

This was the worst news. The absolute worse. A broken collarbone would have been better. At least that would heal, and I could go on playing. A torn rotator cuff could be a career‐ender.

“How ...