Like stage magic, conducting is an activity steeped in mystery – many see the results but the complexity of the processes means that it is one of perpetual learning. This series of presentations explores the component tasks, exposes some of the myths, analyses the challenges and examines the principles underlying the connection between gesture and high quality sound.
In the words of one of our past participants: “This is a course for people who want their music to be the best it can possibly be – for the orchestra, for the composer, for the audience and for themselves. This course is about what really works and is taught by someone for whom it really does.”
Content
Five 90-minute classes:
- The task
- What are we doing, why are we doing it and how can we approach this complex task most effectively?
- The music
- Connecting musical narrative to external stimulus.
- A language of gesture
- Examining the five elements of gesture.
- Enhancing the narrative
- The keys to managing flow, phrasing and colouration of sound.
- Starting to win
- Stimulating high quality sound.
Devised by CA director Jonathan Brett and presented via the Zoom platform, these classes are designed to be accessible for everyone – from those with musical experience and a desire to learn more about this fascinating art to the experienced professional conductor seeking further insight into building stronger connections with the musicians and the music.
Over the five classes, participants will be able to build a comprehensive picture of our systematic approach to conducting. This is based on the principles passed-down to CA directors Jonathan Brett and Maciej Żółtowski from the legendary St Petersburg-trained conductor, Yuri Simonov.
General musical knowledge and some acquaintance with standard repertoire is assumed. The following works may be used for reference so basic familiarity with some of these is desirable but please note that detailed study is not necessary for any of them. Extracts from items in bold will definitely be referenced:
| Beethoven | Egmont Overture Symphony No 3 Eroica (opening) Symphony No 9 (opening of II) |
| Brahms | Symphony No 3 (opening) |
| Mendelssohn | Symphony No 3 Scottish |
| Mozart | Figaro Overture (opening) Eine kleine Nachtmusik Symphony No 41 Jupiter (III) |
| Prokofiev | The Montagues & Capulets (opening) |
| Strauß | An der schönen blauen Donau |
| Tchaikovsky | Symphony No 5 Romeo & Juliet (opening) |
Get this class for free by signing up for Audite 2023.
