Conflict Resolution for Musicians (and Other Cool People)

The definitive guide to solving problems and getting back in the groove -- for creative people of all types, and those who work or live with them. Contains step-by-step instructions on how to use conflict as a powerful force for creativity as well as how to:

• avoid destructive conflict;
• prevent conflict from escalating;
• recognize and interpret four warning signs of conflict;
• evaluate a conflict situation to know when to get help;
• interpret feelings, needs and strategies in conflict situations;
• apply two Guiding Principles of conflict prevention and resolution;
• follow a step-by-step path to successful conflict resolution.

Includes worksheets and other resources to help you navigate any conflict successfully.

"The band is back! Active listening triumphs again... highly recommended." -- Steven J. Haines, Director, Miles Davis Jazz Studies, University of North Carolina Greensboro.

"Conflict is part of being human and by its very nature is uncomfortable. But as this timely book shows, conflict needn't be fatal. It can be worked on and through. Conflict Resolution for Musicians is a positive, useful and much needed addition to our tool kit for living -- as music lovers, music makers, and human beings. Highly recommended!" -- Sally-Anne Gross, Artist Manager, Music Business Consultant, and Programme Director, MA Music Business Management, University of Westminster.

Helene Arts, CEO of Fifth House Group, started off thinking that she was going to become a lawyer, but by 1995 she realized that the gods had other plans for her and thus began her career as a professional mediator. Since then she has been a full time consultant in the field of conflict resolution within criminal, family, and civil court systems, and in not-for-profit and corporate workplace settings. Along the way she became fascinated with group dynamics, and in 2004 completed a Masters in Human Systems Intervention at Concordia University in Montreal, Quebec, becoming a specialist in group intervention. For over ten years Helene has also taught university courses in subjects such as mediation, interpersonal communication, group dynamics, conflict resolution, organizational conflict, and group facilitation. She holds a special place in her heart for creative people of all kinds. Fifth House Group President Ken Ashdown is a musician and former music journalist, indie label entrepreneur, and major label executive. Over his 20-year career Ken has worked with some of the music industry's biggest stars, including Shania Twain, Def Leppard, Bon Jovi, John Mellencamp, Dire Straits, New Order, David Bowie, the Pixies, and U2. He served as Vice President at PolyGram Group Canada (Mercury/Polydor division) and later at QDesign Corporation, a leading provider of advanced digital audio compression technologies. An award-winning, certified adult educator, Ken spent several years as Head of Department at Vancouver Film School's innovative Entertainment Business Management transmedia program and has been hailed as a "master teacher." He earned his Master of Arts (MA) degree in Music Business Management (with Distinction) from the University of Westminster in London, England. In addition to curating the back catalogue for his independent publishing company and record label, his greatest passions include leadership skills development and training for the entertainment industry.