I get 'goosebumps’ when I see or experience excellence!

Whilst watching the Choir on BBC2 I got ‘goosebumps’ about a programme featuring a singing guru called Gareth Malone who tackles myths and stereotypes in order to make change possible – through singing and giving individuals the right to believe in themselves.

I made lots of notes to try to get a picture of what a viewing member of the public might pick up as the programme progressed.

In a nutshell Gareth, chose the Lancaster School, Leicester with aim of changing culture by making singing a fundamental part of school life – something met with fierce resistance from an all boys school – and from some teachers!

But here is a visionary - a person who has that unique drive, passion and vision that all leaders have where they can change and shape the lives of others…always for the better!

What is clear is the high level of emotional intelligence that Gareth displayed to get a group to believe in themselves, perform and recognise the impact of that performance.

Now he's done the same with Opera - have a look at one of his programmes and I hope you get ‘goosebumps’ too….

Steve Burnside

Here are my notes whilst watching the programme…

Vision - deep belief he could deliver for himself and pupils - focus not just on singing
Resistance as singing is not cool
Searches talent – no interest - pupils won’t perform due to peer pressure
Coaching
Discipline - to reach goal
Gareth - shows leadership qualities
Personal mission - passion - knew key pupil could and would persuade others
Continues in face of resistance
Deeply passionate - recognising the journey
Constantly positive in the eye of the beholder
Fosters confidence
Allowed individuals to be true to themselves
Not just talent – it’s what you add - constant praise
Gareth has faith in people - let's them see potential
Performance - great - shows achievement- enjoyment
Impact – pupil’s performance and parents pride
Distinction self confidence self esteem change for the better
Key person. Finds common denominator
Show possible to be a singing school – then Royal Albert Hall- prestigious event
Pushed hard - prove their talent
Hard work ...work even harder
Loyalty from group - constant praise ability to raise spirits in face of adversity
Clarity on challenges faced. Proactive action. Undivided loyalty again.
Find common denominator to bring everyone together
Crack negative attitude
Persuasion ...empathy with group
Pleasure in group's enjoyment
Progress recognised
Excitement
Preparation
Challenge on solo - test of challenge who can handle..
Talent shines.
Schools Proms
Enjoyment, energy, belief in winning
Performance - enjoyment delivery elation, energy, ecstatic, best day of life, happy, feel good, best experience ever
Gareth knew what to do to build Choir into an emotional state where they believed in themselves to perform
Continued praise
Realisation of what's achievable
Life changing, inspirational.