The meaning of conducting technique

While teaching, I sometimes wondered if conducting technique is not a too 'academic' part of my profession. As a musician I realize that ultimately, the music and the result are decisive.

I think an important consideration is that conducting technique is a tool and should never become a goal in itself. In addition, the need for a good technique is relative. Actually, you can say that the better the musicians are with whom you work as a conductor, the less dependent they will be on your conducting technique. For a professional symphony orchestra a conductor is much more an 'inspirator' and the person who should make the sum of the parts bigger than the individual separate parts. This does not preclude that also professional musicians will appreciate if a conductor, next to being musical and inspiring, is also clear and effectively!

Because many (beginning) conductors do not or not always work with professional musicians, the need for a solid technique actually increases. It ensures not only a concert without accidents in which the performers understand what you meant. It also ensures that you can work faster and more effectively during a rehearsal. In many cases a rehearsal or a performance led by a conductor who is clear, is less tiring.

Another very important reason for a solid conducting technique which is easily overlooked, is that a good technique will make you feel safer and more confident. This is not only nice for yourself. You will - consciously or unconsciously - pass on your feeling of confidence to your ensemble, so the music making will be more pleasant and the performers can be raised above themselves.

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