[Yardstick]

I wonder how a person learns the art of conducting? Is it a well defined sort of thing or do you just get up there and play “air orchestra” and if your personal style works then good?

[nwrep]

The art of conducting is taught in musical conservatories. It involves a lot of intricate knowledge of music theory, interpretations of musical styles, orchestration, instrumental peculiarities, and a wide knowledge of composers and compositions.

Classical music (17th-18th-19th and early 20th century music)was largely written before the age of recording and the only available indicators we have on how it should sound is the composer's manuscript, in which notes assigned to each instrument,chosen by the composer for that piece of music,are written. It is up to the conductor to round out the piece by interpreting it, by emphasizing the appropriate parts per the direction of the composer, and creating an instrumental sound and mix that best represents (in the conductor's judgment) the intention of the composer.

[onedoug]

Erich Leinsdorf, “The Composer’s Advocate: A Radical Orthodoxy For Musicians”