I read an article over 30 years ago in which a symphonic violinist encapsulated the nature of his job. He said that professional orchestral musicians have a duty to play their best for whoever is on the podium.
In other words, give all your performances your best effort--and adhere to the conductor's interpretation of the music.
Reading that took me right back to the University Philharmonic--and one atypical rehearsal, in particular.
