Conductor is an orchestra director that controls the players and manages the performance. While the musicians play, and sing their part, the conductor makes sure that everybody plays a common tune.
Responsibilities and Influence
A conductor’s primary responsibilities include:
- Interpreting the Score: The conductor studies the music in depth, deciding on tempos, dynamics, and phrasing to bring the composer’s vision to life.
- Rehearsing the Orchestra: Conductors lead rehearsals, addressing technical and artistic details to refine the performance.
- Providing Visual Cues: During performances, the conductor uses hand gestures and body language to communicate timing, intensity, and emotional expression to the musicians.
- Maintaining Balance: The conductor ensures that all sections of the orchestra are balanced, so no single instrument overpowers the others.
The conductor himself or herself can have a major say on the sound or approach to a composition.
Famous Conductors in History
There has been a number of conductors who have made imprints in the orchestral music society:
- Leonard Bernstein: Known for his dynamic conducting style and versatility, Bernstein was a celebrated composer and conductor of the New York Philharmonic.
- Herbert von Karajan: A real giant of the classical music, Karajan conducted the Berlin Philharmonic for more than thirty years, recording some of the finest performances of the discography.
- Gustavo Dudamel: Young and modern, Dudamel has successfully infuse fresh dynamism and ideas into orchestras all over the world thus nurturing a new crop of musicians.
Unique Roles in the Orchestra
Concertmaster
The concertmaster is the leading violinist and one of the primary people in the orchestra, after the conductor. This is an important member in any orchestra as he or she relays instructions from the conductor to the members of the orchestra. Key responsibilities of the concertmaster include:
- Leading the String Section: The concertmaster sets the tone for the string players and often leads bowing techniques.
- Tuning the Orchestra: Before a performance begins, the concertmaster signals the oboist to provide the tuning note, ensuring all musicians are in harmony.
- Performing Solos: The concertmaster frequently plays prominent violin solos in orchestral works.
The concertmaster’s expertise and leadership are critical to the orchestra’s success.