Conductor

What is the job of conductors?

Conductors lead an orchestra or choir and are responsible for ensuring that a musical work is performed to their liking. Conductors set the tempo, phrasing, dynamics, and overall mood of the performance. They place the musicians or singers in the right place in the piece and make sure they work as a whole. Conductors rehearse with the orchestra or choir in advance to ensure that the work is performed exactly as they envision it. Conductors in a senior position in an orchestra are called principal conductors and have primary responsibility for developing the orchestra's performance. Conductors often hold a baton in their hands, but many also choose to forgo the baton.

What do conductors need to be able to do?

Conductors are highly skilled musical leaders and must have extensive musical experience and knowledge as well as artistic verve. Conductors must be able to inspire other musicians and put their own artistic stamp on the orchestra, choir, and works. The basic requirements of the training include mastery of at least one musical instrument, pedagogical skills and a sound musical education. You should have at least the Middle maturity, better a high school graduation, so that you can successfully apply for a conducting class at a music school or even for studies at a university or academy.

Source: StagePool, Wikipedia, KMH