Joe was 昀氀abbergasted. “You make it sound like it was hard work — all I know was that it was inspiring.” “That’s my job as the conductor; I bring together the right music and the right people to play the right roles.” Joe felt that no matter what he said, he was off-track, but that didn’t stop him from talking further. “I guess I’m trying to say I admire your creativity and talent — that’s why you’re the Maestro.” Maestro patiently responded, “My dear Joe, allow me to share with you that, while I appreciate your assessment of my creativity, you’re hardly in a position to judge it. I didn’t compose the piece you heard tonight, a gentleman by the name of Beethoven did 200 years ago. The very same notes he composed in 1808 were the ones we performed tonight — not one note or time signature has changed. As for talent, I humbly believe that, while I do have talent, in tonight’s performance there were perhaps a half dozen more talented than I.” Joe couldn’t contain himself and blurted, “But you’re the Maestro, you’re the leader, the most talented.” This time the Maestro couldn’t contain himself, replying, “Yes, I’m the Maestro, the leader, BUT that’s my job — just because I conduct doesn’t mean I’m the most talented. Actually, I want as many talented people around me as possible. Keep in mind, I’m not always the Maestro. I’m a pianist and when I perform on piano, I too answer to a conductor.” Joe was learning a lot. “I just wish my company, my dealers and I were as uni昀椀ed and harmonious as you and your orchestra. We’re dissonant — we sound like the orchestra when it’s warming up before the performance.” 10