The most we can achieve together in an ensemble are the lowest aspirations of any one member.
I refuse to use the phrase the “only as strong as the weakest link” because someone with low aspirations isn’t weaker than anyone else. It’s just that their aims are different.
It’s okay to aim for a fun, relaxing time with an ensemble. It’s okay to aim for the pinnacle of musical excellence.
But if our aims aren’t aligned, someone will always be disappointed or frustrated.
Best to start by talking about what those aspirations are. Out in the open, we can align them, recognize where they differ, and work together on aspirations that are achievable and that work for the entire ensemble.