overview
This chapter deals presents some general rehearsal techniques and some thoughts about conducting an ensemble that has a rhythm section. There’s a lot of information in this chapter, so rather than giving a summary of the contents, here’s an outline:
- Preparing for the rehearsal
- Analyze and mark your score
- Set the tempo
- Set the count off
2. Kicking off (starting) the tune:
3. General rehearsal techniques
- Work from big to small
- Don’t talk too much
- Be the leader but not a dictator
- Allow your personal style as a director to emerge
- Communicate clearly
- Be positive, but not patronizing
- Be clear about what you’re rehearsing and why
4. Conducting
- Conducting time
- The beat pattern
- Giving cues
- Conducting practice