Mechanistic and organic approaches in Schoenberg, Johnson, and Waters

MECHANISTIC vs. ORGANIC

Choose musical list write. Tell work mechanistic organic work organic mechanistic relate values work analyze integrating bureaucracy -Arnold Schonberg "Finale" of variations Orchestra 1926-1928 -Robert Johnson "I Believe I'll dust My Broom" (recorded November 23,1936) -Robert Johnson "Home sweet Chicago" (recorded November 23, 1936) -Muddy Waters "I feel home" (1948).

Mechanistic vs. organic organizations and musical metaphors:

"I believe I'll dust my broom."

One of the 'classical' ways to classify organizations is to define them as either primarily mechanistic or organic. While all organizations contain elements of both systems, most tend to fall into one of these two 'camps' to a greater degree. Mechanistic organizations are hierarchical, with clearly defined authority roles, and clearly defined functions for each position (Ross 2011). There is less of a focus on abstract vision and mission statements, and more of a focus on individual tasks, which are undertaken on a case-by-case basis, with little sense of how the task fulfills the needs of the whole (Ross 2011). Most organizations (particularly well-established businesses) tend to be structured in a very mechanistic way.

In contrast, organic structures rely upon the contribution of all individuals in the organization, regardless of their place in the hierarchy. There is a disdain for hierarchy in general and a focus upon accomplishing the overall mission of the organization rather than upon technical specifics. Everyone makes a contribution in different ways, and tasks are continually redefined. Everyone has an equal, invested commitment to the organization. Companies like Apple and Google are often cited as examples of 'organic' organizations.

If companies can be compared to music, it could be said that mechanistic organizations are analogous with Baroque or Classical music in terms of their devotion to form, while mechanistic organizations are like 'jazz.' This can be seen in works such as the blues song "I believe I'll dust my broom." Its composer, Robert Johnson, "played in a style that was entirely unique, accompanying himself with finger picking that often sounded like a second guitarist to casual listeners. It's been theorized -- and is entirely likely -- that Johnson derived his iconic song from several earlier popular records" (Marshall 2011). Rather than the form of the work, or crafting a piece that sounds like a 'classical' lyric song, Johnson was intent upon creating an overall impression or effect upon the listener. Aspects of the work may be heavily derivative or 'borrowed,' but this does not matter. What does matter is the unique 'spin' Johnson puts upon the piece, making it uniquely his own. "Borrowing lyrics in blues was (and continues to be) common. Johnson's version, however, has stunning and original guitar work that would prove to be influential for decades to come" (Marshall 2011).