Conducting Artistry

Listen in as we discuss the critical role of the conductor in setting the emotional and musical thermostat throughout in the soundcheck and during the concert to ensure that both the ensemble and the audience are swept up in the performance. From maintaining a cool head during unexpected mishaps to the subtle art of body language, we reveal personal anecdotes and strategies for keeping the ensemble focused and creatively engaged. 

This episode brings to light the elusive 'extra gear' that musicians and conductors aim to unlock during live performances. Discover how the combination of mental adjustments and practical techniques can elevate a concert beyond mere rehearsal, transforming it into a deeply moving experience for everyone involved. With a special focus on the balance between stability and risk-taking, Tom and I share insights on how perfection is not the ultimate goal, but rather the emotional connection that music creates between the performer and the listener. 

Sound checks and concert preparation take center stage as we navigate through the intricacies of acclimatizing to different acoustical environments. I offer essential strategies to ensure musicians and soloists are comfortable and well-balanced within the performance space, while also highlighting the significance of preserving energy for the pinnacle moment. By rehearsing key passages and creating a supportive atmosphere, the ensemble is primed for a confident and enjoyable performance. So tune in and let us guide you through the conductor's journey from the soundcheck to the final, resonant chord of a concert.

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The Importance of Final Rehearsals

This chapter focuses on the critical role of final rehearsals in preparing for a concert, where we highlight the importance of building confidence and security within the ensemble. We emphasize the need for a macro approach at this stage, ensuring that players have the opportunity to run through the entire program to feel prepared and minimize uncertainties. We discuss the balance conductors must strike between addressing remaining issues and allowing enough time for full run-throughs, acknowledging that the latter can be essential for a successful performance. Additionally, we touch on how different factors, such as the experience level of the musicians and the timeframe of rehearsals, can impact whether longer works, like full symphonies, are played through during the final rehearsal. Overall, we underscore that thoughtful planning and prioritization from conductors can greatly enhance the ensemble's readiness and confidence for the upcoming performance.

Preparing for Performances With School, College & Community Groups

This chapter examines the unique challenges faced by school and community musical groups with infrequent performance schedules, emphasizing the importance of meticulous preparation for conductors. We discuss strategies for bridging the long gaps between concerts, which can lead to a lack of performance memory. Detailed run sheets and annotations on musicians' sheet music are suggested as effective tools to guide performers through the logistical aspects of a performance, such as standing cues and tuning reminders. Additionally, I share my personal technique of using post-it notes for soloist acknowledgments to avoid overlooking any performers during the concert. The conversation concludes with the recommendation of conducting full practice performances, including walking on stage and adjusting to the environment, to ensure a polished and professional real performance.

Preparing for Performances in Professional Context

This chapter explores the growth and confidence that comes from repetition in performances, drawing on experiences from a Melbourne tour. We share how even just three performances can significantly improve comfort and execution for musicians. We discuss the role of conductors in ensuring repertoire is well-chosen and rehearsals are effective, leading to a polished final show, particularly when there's only one performance opportunity. In the professional realm, we highlight the importance of the general rehearsal, making the unfamiliar familiar, and focusing on the music rather than excessive verbal direction. The conversation touches on the balance of rehearsal needs between well-known pieces and new ones, as well as the conductor's responsibility to facilitate a smooth performance, especially in education concerts. I emphasize the effectiveness of non-verbal communication in rehearsals, which can lead to more time spent making music and less time talking.

Building Confidence and Security in Rehearsals

This chapter focuses on the crucial role that confidence and security play in the final rehearsals before a performance. We discuss the importance of rehearsing with the intention of building these two elements within the musicians, emphasizing that every aspect of preparation, including practicing stage bows, contributes to the overall feeling of assurance on stage. The takeaway is clear: fostering a confident and secure atmosphere is paramount for successful performances.

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(00:00) Navigating Interpretation and Engagement in Conducting

In this chapter we discuss how conductors can engage with players and their musical ideas and suggestions, emphasizing the importance of asking questions to help the ensemble think for themselves and understand their role in the music. We also touch on the delicate balance of giving interpretive decision-making to the ensemble while still maintaining cohesion, suggesting the use of a range of questions to guide the ensemble towards a shared understanding of the music. 

(17:21) Effective Rehearsal Strategies and Challenges

This chapter explores the dynamics of successful and unsuccessful rehearsals, focusing on the frustrations of changing ideas and spending too much time on one passage. We also discuss the importance of nonverbal communication and being aware of individual needs within a group setting. Additionally, we touch on the skill of knowing when to push and when to let go in a rehearsal, highlighting the conductor's role in leading a group practice session. Overall, this chapter provides valuable insights into the challenges faced by both conductors and players in creating a successful rehearsal environment.

(25:11) Improve Conducting and Empathy in Rehearsals

This chapter focuses on the middle period of rehearsing and how to effectively read the room as a conductor. We discuss the importance of observational skills and listening when working with unfamiliar musicians. The conversation then shifts to how reading the room can also benefit players, allowing them to better understand the conductor's needs and the needs of other sections. 

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This episode, we're discussing the nitty-gritty of what musicians need from conductors in the middle part of the rehearsal process. Our experiences and insights cover everything from preparation and planning for rehearsals to honing your listening skills for effective problem-solving.

Listen in as we further explore rehearsal planning and feedback. We discuss the importance of understanding the music's intention and conveying it effectively to the ensemble. We also touch on the crucial aspect of post-rehearsal reflection and review, with tips on how to effectively implement it. Memory and note-taking during rehearsals also play a significant role, and we elaborate on how to use them to your advantage.

Communication and feedback in conducting take centre stage in our conversation. We highlight how conductors can optimally give and receive feedback, including non-verbally. We delve into the importance of striking a balance between providing continuous feedback and letting the ensemble find their rhythm. Additionally, we shed light on the psychological aspects of conducting during these crucial middle rehearsals.

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Today's episode tackles the crucial first rehearsal. Learn how to make a lasting impression, establish effective communication and the importance of rhythm, with the understanding that initial mistakes are an essential part of the journey towards a stellar performance. 

The conversation takes a deep dive into managing stress and expectations, with a focus on cultivating a positive environment for musicians. Discover how to navigate the tricky path of labeling pieces as easy or challenging, and the significance of maintaining a global awareness within the ensemble. 

Through our discussion, gain practical tips on improving communication within sections and setting the right priorities during rehearsals. 

Finally, join us as we explore the distinct dynamics that come with handling a professional orchestra versus an educational or community group. Grasp the decisive and adaptable attitude needed when conducting a professional group, and the opportunities for growth and experimentation in an educational or community ensemble. Whether you're a conductor, a player, or simply a music enthusiast, you're sure to gain valuable insights from our shared experiences and reflections on improving performances in both contexts. 

Together, we underscore the importance of empowering students in music education and encourage you to embrace the same in your practice.

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Join us for a compelling discussion about the importance of score study for conductors and its impact on ensemble players. 

Listen in as we share our unique perspectives, including Tom's insight as a player and Ingrid's transition from starting with recordings to starting with the score. We both emphasize the need to approach score study with a clear vision of the ideal version of the piece, instead of being swayed by the current ensemble's limitations. 

The conversation continues as we explore the art of music interpretation, starting with the score and no instrument. Tune in as we discuss the importance of making informed choices and using the score as a performance outline. We also highlight the benefits of listening to multiple recordings for variety, avoiding getting stuck on a single version. 

Lastly, we delve into the significance of imagination in interpreting music and the role of recordings in preparation for a performance. Get inspired as we discuss creating a clear mental orchestra to develop a personal interpretation of a piece. 

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In this episode delve into the complexities of selecting repertoire, organizing logistics, and maintaining a balance between administrative tasks and artistic vision. We highlight how preparations vary depending on the context - be it school ensembles or professional orchestras - emphasizing the importance of effective leadership for a successful performance.

Join us as we examine the contrasting needs and planning demands in an educational setting versus a professional setting. We stress the importance of advanced planning and clear rehearsal schedules, particularly in a professional context where schedules may be set far in advance. We also underline the necessity for flexibility in a school or community setting. A crucial takeaway from our discussion is the importance of giving players a sense of preparedness and safety before a performance, which can be achieved by playing through the entire symphony without stopping.

Finally, we scrutinize the three stages of rehearsal and score study, shedding light on the value of understanding the overall structure of the piece before diving into details. The repetition and multiple run-throughs, while demanding, can lead to musicians feeling comfortable and confident in their performance. We wrap up our discussion by emphasizing the importance of intentional planning, clear communication, and a well-defined vision for a successful performance. 

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After a long hiatus I'm back with a new co-host, Tom Grayden. This season we're exploring what players need from conductor and what conductors need to do to prepare for better rehearsals (and performances)! Hit subscribe to get our latest episode dropping each Tuesday.

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CREDITS

Hosts: Ingrid Martin & Tom Grayden

Editing: Tom Grayden

Music: The Crosswinds Ensemble

Recorded at the University of Melbourne

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Benefits of thematic programming

• Explore composers' responses to an idea in depth and breadth
• Deepen players' and audiences' connection to the music
• Focusses marketing efforts and capture new audiences
• Opportunities for collaboration and cross-curricular links
• Opportunities for creativity and non-musical elements in performance

How to create a themed program

• Specific themes vs. Broad Themes
• Example program & extra-musical elements
• Make a huge list of related works then cull it down
• Use techniques discussed in prior episodes to create shape of program

Download the full details of themed programs including program notes, list of works, photos and non-musical elements:

• The Sound of Art
• An Invitation to the Dance including Death by Tango (Soundcloud) by Edward Fairlie
• Beyond the Stars

Action Steps

1. Pick a theme and find 5 pieces that fit the theme
2. Write down who is the target audience for this theme and 5 places you could advertise to this audience
3. Pick one image that could be the program cover

Share your action steps with us on Instagram! Take a photo or screen shot, tag us @conductingartistry and use hashtag #conductingartistryinaction

Keep on learning!

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Discerning quality and appropriateness when selecting music.

What does artistic excellence look and sound like?

• Expectations
• Form, shape & design
• Orchestration & density
• Style
• Development
• Idiom
• Musical validity
• Appeal & interest to players, audience and us
• Being the adult in the room - training musical palates rather than pandering

Download the Determining Excellence Checklist

Blog post: Why can't the kids pick their own music? {LINK to blog}

Stephen Budiansky's Washington Post article: The kids play great, but that music...

How to develop your own discernment and taste

• Getting out of the rehearsal room
• Listening beyond your ensemble/genre
• Listening to great (and bad!) performances
• Listen outside classical music

Musical Inspiration for Conductors (Youtube playlist)

Appropriateness

• How to listen
• Where to listen

How to select music that is appropriate for your:

• Ensemble
• Occasion
• Audience

Download the Determining Appropriateness Checklist

Action Steps

1. Select a work that is new to you and assess its artistic excellence using the checklist.
2. Select an upcoming performance in your calendar. Assess the work from Step 1 for its appropriateness to that event using the checklist.

Share your action steps with us on Instagram! Take a photo or screen shot, tag us @conductingartistry and use hashtag #conductingartistryinaction

Keep on learning!

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4 best sources for quality repertoire and how to use them

1. Repertoire lists

• State lists & festival lists
• Teaching Music Through Performance Comprehensive List (2019) - Band, Orchestra & Choir
• Frank Ticheli's List in the MBM Times Magazines
• Best Music for High School Band (book)
• Best Music for Young Band (book)
• World Association for Symphonic Bands & Ensembles
• Tim Reynish (UK Conductor)

2. Member-contributed content sites

• Windrep.org
• Band Directors Facebook Group

3. A shortlist of quality publishers (not the usual suspects!)

• Brolga Music Publishing (Australia)
• Maecenas Music (UK)
• Piles Music (Spain)
• Manhattan Beach Music (USA)
• Bandquest - American Composer's Forum (USA)
• Windependence - Boosey & Hwakes
• FJH Music (US)
• Grand Mesa Music (US)
• C Alan Publications (US)
• G&M Brand (UK)
• Barnhouse (US)
• DeHaske/Amstel (Europe)
• Bravo Music (Japan)

4. Self-published composers

• Steven Bryant
• Michael Markowski
• Jodie Blackshaw
• James Stephenson

Template for your own repertoire list

4 do's and don'ts of researching repertoire

1. Don't just research pieces and composers you already know
2. Don't just listen to one recording
3. Do listen all the way through
4. Do look at the score

Action Steps

1. Start your own repertoire list. Download the template and start entering pieces you've done and pieces you're considering for your ensemble.
2. Visit a publisher you haven't heard of before and go through the detective process. Select a piece you don't know that's at your ensemble's level and listen through with the score. Add it to your repertoire list.

Share your action steps with us on Instagram! Take a photo or screen shot, tag us @conductingartistry and use hashtag #conductingartistryinaction

Keep on learning!

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The shape, arc and drama of our performance determines the audience's experience.

How to structure a concert

• What is the emotional arc of the performance?
• How do you want the audience to feel?
• Engaging the audience from (before) the first note

Transfigured Night - Norwegian Chamber Orchestra (YouTube video)

Completing The Circle - Considerations for Change in the Performance of Music, Bud Beyer (book)

Methods for planning the shape of a concert

• Using playlists to plan transitions
• Common pitfalls in concert sequencing

Download the Concert Shapes Inspiration PDF

Action Step

1. Take music you have already selected for a performance. Write the titles on small pieces of paper. Play with the different orders of pieces. Draw a shape of the emotional journey of the concert for each different program order.

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A great program, like a memorable meal, has variety and balance.

Elements to consider when creating balance and contrast

• Style
• Duration
• Tempo
• Key
• Historical Period
• Form
• Volume/Dynamic
• Technical Variety
• Emotional Content
• Narrative Content

Chef's Table (Netflix)
Download the Balanced Program Checklist

Strategies for selecting a balanced program

• Starting with a key piece
• Filling slots by genre

Action Steps

1. Select one key piece you'd like to program. Select two more pieces that balance and contrast with it, using the criteria discussed.
2. Find and listen to two pieces for your ensemble by composers you've never heard before

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When you select appropriate repertoire, you can make real music in every rehearsal.

8 common ensemble problems caused by repertoire choice and how to avoid them

1. Low student engagement
2. Low teacher engagement
3. Slow rehearsal pace/progress
4. Urgent rehearsal pace
5. Student's can't play the music
6. It just sounds bad!
7. Persistent areas of weakness/lack of development
8. Poor student retention in ensembles or music program

The 80/20 rule for choosing repertoire at the right level for your group
Selecting achievable repertoire so you can make real music faster.

Action Steps

1. Look at your list of repertoire you have planned to program (or a past concert program). Put a '?' next to all the pieces that are in the '20' category (or are just too hard). Is it 80/20?
2. Find one new piece that fits the '80' category for your ensemble

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Why repertoire selection is important

We discuss:

• How repertoire forms the basis of the teaching and learning that goes on in our rehearsals
• How repertoire communicates what we value as educators
• How this may be our musicians' only exposure to this genre of music

Setting Musical Goals

• The importance of planning a year ahead
• The impact of setting long, medium and short term goals
• Where is your ensemble now? What skills do they currently have?
• Where do you want them to be in 12 months?
• What skills do they currently have?
• What skills & knowledge do they need to build to progress to the next ensemble or their next destination (college, community, music advocate/appreciator)

Where are they at now? Making A Skills Inventory

Download the Yearly Skill Development Planner Template and and fill it out for your ensemble!

How to inventory the incoming skills and abilities of the ensemble across 6 areas:

1. Musical - technical skills (keys, dynamics, rhythms etc), theoretical knowledge
2. Ensemble - internal pulse, intonation, balance, blend
3. Listening - balance, blend, knowing how and where to listen
4. Human - communication within ensemble, constructive feedback
5. Behavioural - attentional control, not playing/speaking over others, concert etiquette, presentation skills
6. Life Skills & Knowledge - attitude, perseverance, confidence, performance under pressure

Where do you want to go? Setting Long to Short Term Goals

• Set long term goals for your ensembles for the end of the year
• Plot backwards from one year in the future to now
• Scaffold skill development from Point A to Point B

Creating Your Performance Calendar

Download the Performance Calendar Template

• Add Performance details - date, venue, context, audience, music needed
• Add in rehearsal schedule - how many rehearsals for each performance, beware overlap between performances, public holidays, time between performances, special events
• Progress Accelerators - rehearsal camps, extended rehearsals, tours, contests, honor bands, workshops, guest clinicians
• Progress Decelerators - academic exams/testing/assessment, public holidays, snow days, emergencies, illness periods eg. winter, holiday periods, breaks between rehearsals
• Add in musical goals - allow buffer room, be ready to perform at least one rehearsal earlier than you think you should, have non-performance elements ready at least 2 rehearsals before the performance

Benefits of this process:

• No surprises!
• Always being prepared for each performance (both you and the ensemble!)
• Build in contingencies for common issues
• Monitor progress throughout the year - keep track of where you are
• Know at a glance where you are at any point in the year

ACTION STEPS

1. Download the Yearly Skill Development Planner Template and fill it out for your ensemble/s
2. Download the Performance Calendar Template and fill it out for your ensemble/s

Share your action steps with us on Instagram! Take a photo or screen shot, tag us @conductingartistry and use hashtag #conductingartistryinaction

Keep on learning!

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