"The conductor's stand is not a continent of power, but rather an island of solitude"

This quote by Riccardo Muti speaks with the idea that a conductor's stand is not a location of power, however rather a location of privacy. The conductor is the leader of the orchestra, and is responsible for assisting the musicians and making sure that the efficiency is of the highest quality. However, in spite of the conductor's authority, the stand is a location of isolation. The conductor is alone in their obligation, and need to rely on their own knowledge and ability to lead the orchestra. The conductor is the only one who can genuinely comprehend the music and the efficiency, and need to have the ability to make choices without the input of others. The conductor's stand is a location of privacy, where the conductor should depend on their own judgement and skill to lead the orchestra to success.