Mark Hilliard Wilson is an active performer, teacher, and developer of Guitar Orchestra. Writing, arranging and exploring new venues for the performance of classical music has led to over 200 works Wilson has written or arranged, of which 15 works for Guitar orchestra can be found published on Seconda Prattica. Wilson applies his interpersonal skills and broad knowledge of history, music and cultures around the world to address contemporary issues in the concerts he programs. How can classical music address issues of those unhoused, or gun violence, or how social media and technology are rapidly affecting our ways of communicating and what we communicate? Curating concerts that address these issues, raising awareness of means to address, or educate audiences about the circumstances that led to how quickly and easily people can find themselves in this position, while at the same time creating space to consider this through the lens of our common humanity. At the turn of the century, Wilson saw a need for classical guitarists to address fundamental elements of ensemble playing, and sometimes even the components of processing how music is made. Wilson created the Guitar Orchestra of Seattle to address these concerns and more while focusing on community and having fun. Over the last 20 years Wilson has toured North America teaching guitar ensemble workshops in Winnipeg, Canada to over 100 at risk students, and preparing them to share varied programs featuring, his own compositions, as well as classical composers and even excellent transcriptions of Johnny Cash, Linkin Park and Aerosmith. Wilson was commissioned by Guitar Fest West at Mount Royal College in Calgary to premier numerous works for Guitar Orchestra. This involved directing two hour rehearsals for 5 days with a concert at the end of the week. In order to survive in the field of music, one must develop a diverse set of skills and evolve these tools at the rapid pace the world is changing. Fortunately, many of the tools used in learning a piece of music are highly applicable to working in the modern work environment. One of the most important skills is listening, and understanding what needs to be addressed, whether teaching a student, or working with a client for a project or working with fellow musicians or colleagues, listening is paramount to success. Navigating a complex piece of music with more than one melody, and intricate rhythms is another intersection where attention to detail is crucial for understanding problems and opportunities presented.