If I have a question about a piece of music, I ask an expert – ideally the composer if possible, and if not, then a specific stylistic expert. I don’t presume that I have the specialist knowledge, and I don’t assume that anyone with an opinion about the music has an informed one.
If I have a question about fitness, I’ll ask a trainer. If I have a question about my kids’ education, I’ll ask their teacher or their principal. If I have a question about the global climate crisis, I’ll ask a climatologist.
And if I have a question about virus, I’m going to ask an immunologist or a pathologist. That’s who I’m listening to closely right now, and I am thankful, even as my conducting schedule gets wiped clear for the next several weeks, that the powers that be in my area are doing the same.