This is a phenomenological study of the communication processes around
quality in a symphony chorus. Based upon intensive observations,
interviews and participation in rehearsals and concerts over a
five-month period, the study develops a narrative of the organization's
endeavors to achieve quality musical performances. Data were analyzed
via the theoretical construct of coordinated management of meaning
theory using narrative, metaphor and episodic analysis. Individual and
organizational understanding of the phenomena of communication about
shared vision of quality were analyzed via organizational learning
theory and complexity leadership theory, based upon phenomenological
reduction analysis of participant interviews. Findings revealed
relationships between level of academic degree of the study participants
and their understandings of these phenomena. The findings indicated a
bifurcation of ontological understanding between master degree holders
and the understandings of either bachelor or doctoral degree holders,
suggesting possible epistemological issues in master degree curricula