The role of the superintendent has changed dramatically, from community leader to school manager to education leader to scapegoat, and it is anyone's guess where the job is headed. What is clear, however, is that today's educational climate calls for a new way of doing business. With the formal powers of their position stripped away by bargaining agreements, court decisions, state and federal mandates and local political infighting, 21st century superintendents must rely less on government and community support and more on their personal skills and knowledge and their ability to bring people together. Furthermore, the author states that today's superintendents are in essence conductors, and relationships are their instruments. And to achieve harmony, they must understand the strengths of each instrument, recognize the contribution each makes to the symphony and bring out the best in each musician. School leaders should pay particular attention to five essential relationships and strive to strengthen them.