Is becoming a conductor right for me?
The first step to choosing a career is to make sure you are actually willing to commit to pursuing the career. You don’t want to waste your time doing something you don’t want to do. If you’re new here, you should read about:
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How to become a Conductor
Becoming a conductor can be a rewarding career for those who have a passion for music and enjoy working with musicians to create beautiful performances. Here are some steps you can take to become a conductor:
- Formal Education: Most conductors have a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Music Theory and Composition or Music, with a focus on conducting. Look for programs that offer conducting courses and opportunities to work with ensembles.
- Learn to Play an Instrument: While it's not required to be a virtuoso on an instrument, having a basic proficiency in an instrument, such as piano or violin, can help you better understand the music you'll be conducting.
- Join a Choir or Orchestra: Joining a choir or orchestra as a performer can help you gain valuable experience and insight into the world of music performance. It will also give you an opportunity to observe conductors in action.
- Study Conducting: Consider taking additional conducting courses or private lessons to further develop your skills. Attend workshops, seminars, and masterclasses to learn from experienced conductors.
- Gain Experience: Look for opportunities to conduct smaller ensembles, such as community or church choirs, or student orchestras. This will give you practical experience in leading a group of musicians.
- Network: Attend concerts and events to meet other musicians and conductors. Join professional organizations such as the Conductors Guild or the American Choral Directors Association to connect with others in your field.
- Apply For Conducting Positions: Look for conducting positions in orchestras, choirs, and musical theater productions. Be prepared to submit a resume, recordings of your conducting, and references.
Associations
By joining one or more of the following associations, you can connect with other conductors in your field, access resources and professional development opportunities, and stay up-to-date on the latest trends and developments in conducting.
- The Conductors Guild: Supports conductors with workshops, mentorships, and networking opportunities.
- American Choral Directors Association (ACDA): Focuses on choral conductors, offering conferences, publications, and resources for improving choral performance.
- National Association for Music Education (NAfME): Helps music educators, including conductors, with professional development and advocacy.
- International Federation for Choral Music (IFCM): A global network for choral conductors, providing workshops, conferences, and educational resources.
Online Resources
There are several online resources available for music conductors that can be useful in enhancing their skills and knowledge. Here are some of them:
- Conducting Masterclass / The Art of Conducting / The Conducting Mentor: Platforms offering online lessons, masterclasses, and guidance for conductors of all levels.
- YouTube: Channels like the Berliner Philharmoniker, Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra, and London Symphony Orchestra provide masterclasses, rehearsals, and performances.
- IMSLP: Free access to thousands of public domain scores for practice and study.
- Music Teachers National Association (MTNA): Offers resources for music teachers and conductors, including repertoire and technique guides.