How to Innovate Without Losing What Works: Lessons from the Conductor’s Podium

Innovation has become a buzzword in the business world. Every leader is expected to disrupt, reinvent, and change the world. But while the pressure to innovate is important, there’s a crucial question we often overlook:?How can we learn to innovate without losing what already works?

As an orchestra conductor, I struggle with this question constantly. The world of classical music is rooted in a 500-year tradition—centuries-old practices that are fundamental to the art form. Yet, if we focus solely on the tradition, we risk becoming outdated, irrelevant, and that’s part of the reason why so many orchestras struggle financially. On the other hand, if we try to innovate for the sake of innovation, we risk losing the essence of what makes this music so great. It’s a delicate balance.

The same dilemma exists in the corporate world. Businesses are expected to keep innovating, often without enough time to consider what’s already working. Leaders feel the pressure to re-invent the wheel, but in trying to do so, they can sometimes abandon the strategies that have led them to success.

So, how do you introduce change while holding onto the core elements that already work? Here are some key strategies:

1. Honor the Score, but Don’t Be Afraid to Interpret

In classical music, the score is the foundation. It serves as the Bible for every conductor and we constantly try to interpret what we believe the composer meant. While the notes are the same, it’s interesting to see how there are never two identical performances of the same piece. Each conductor brings their own vision and interpretation to the music and this is where the innovation happens.

In business, your “score” is what already works—your proven strategies, your successful products, and the systems that drive your business forward. Throwing them out in the name of innovation can do more harm than good. It’s better to find ways to interpret them differently while keeping them in place. Adding a fresh perspective to what’s already successful can help you innovate without disrupting what’s working.

2. Build on What’s Strong

One of the biggest misconceptions about innovation is that it means starting from scratch. But in both conducting and business, true innovation often comes from building on what’s already strong.

You don’t replace 5 centuries of violin techniques in the name of innovation. You experiment with those techniques to get the unique sound and color you want from your players.

In your business, look for techniques that produce results and experiment with them. Don’t try to re-invent the process, there’s a reason why some practices stick around for decades. Find ways to innovate that enhance, rather than replace, what’s already working.

3. Collaboration Over Dictation

A conductor doesn’t perform alone. While it’s easy to assume that the conductor is in complete control, the reality is far more collaborative. Every musician brings their own talent and interpretation to the performance, and the best conductors are the ones who embrace that collaboration.

Corporate leaders, too, don’t need to dictate every innovation. Your team is full of creative ideas, and your role is to guide that innovation—not impose it. Encourage collaboration and give your team the freedom to bring new ideas forward. The sum of those contributions will lead to a more dynamic, innovative, and effective outcome.

4. Know When to Push, and When to Hold Steady

In conducting, one of the most important skills is knowing when to push the tempo and when to hold back. If we push too hard, the orchestra may come apart, and believe me when I tell you -? that is not a pretty sight.

There are moments when innovation is necessary—when you need to drive forward and challenge the status quo. But there are also times when the best move is to maintain what’s working and hold steady.

5. Innovation Without Purpose is Noise

In music, sound without purpose is just noise. Innovation for the sake of innovation can have the same effect in business. Every change, every new direction, needs to serve a larger purpose. Ask yourself: Why am I pushing for this change? What value will it bring to the organization, the team, or the customers?

Innovation should always align with the mission and values of the company. Without that connection, it becomes distracting rather than effective. Ensure that any innovations you introduce are aligned with your overall goals and reinforce your organization’s strengths, rather than detract from them.

In summary, innovation isn't about making the most noise but about driving real progress that supports your business's core values. Like every note in a symphony, each change should align with your company's mission and goals. When you focus on meaningful, value-based changes, your organization becomes stronger and more unified with each step forward.