Students will study the fundamentals of baton technique and beat patterns, non-verbal communication with an ensemble, cues, musical expression, listening to multiple parts, score preparation, and rehearsal techniques.

Weekly assignments will be short, including exercises in baton technique and score preparation. In class, students will each get a turn to conduct and receive feedback from the instructor and the ensemble.

The conducting students in the class will also serve as the ensemble, so all participating students must play an instrument at an intermediate or advanced level. The textbook “The Modern Conductor,” by Elizabeth Green, will serve as a guideline and provide all materials. Any assignments or reading excerpts will be distributed in class, so there is no need to buy supplies. Purchasing a baton is optional, but recommendations can be given.