Elementary Instrumental Conducting

What do conductors do and how do they do it? In this course, students are introduced to the theory, technique, and practice of instrumental conducting. Students will develop the art of physical gesture by conducting an ensemble made up of class members. Topics include baton technique, rehearsal procedure, and structural analysis. Studies in clef reading and transposition will foster the skills needed to read orchestral scores. Students will study and conduct instrumental music for strings, winds, and full orchestra primarily from the Baroque, Classical, and Romantic periods. Following preliminary work with the class ensemble, each student will conduct Stanford Philharmonia and the Stanford Symphony Orchestra in rehearsal as their final project. Prerequisite: Instructor's permission.