Conductor - Personal requirements
Kaihautū
Skills & knowledge
Conductors need to have:
- knowledge of musical theory and techniques
- knowledge of musical instruments
- knowledge of voice techniques
- knowledge of musical terms and symbols
- knowledge of performance techniques
- the ability to interpret various styles of music by different composers
- the ability to conduct rehearsals and put together a concert
- an understanding of the relationship between words and music
- leadership and teamwork skills
- performance skills
- computer skills.
Conductors who work with singers of foreign languages need to have knowledge of foreign languages, and an understanding of the International Phonetic Alphabet.
Personal Qualities
Conductors should be creative, patient, encouraging, motivated and disciplined. They should also be able to work to a schedule and keep calm under pressure.
Conductors need to have good hand-eye co-ordination
Photo courtesy of TOWER New Zealand Youth Choir (Lindsay Somerville)
Leadership skills are essential for conductors
Photo courtesy of Central Band of the RNZAF Band
Physical Requirements
Conductors need to be reasonably fit and healthy, with excellent hearing, an ear for music and a good sense of rhythm. They also need to have good hand-eye co-ordination and expressive body movements.
