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Date: | Fri, 15 Jan 1999 05:55:56 PST |
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Roger Hecht wrote:
>>Even without a baton, you can follow the real artist. You read his/her
>>body language and get used to the conductor's style.
J. McDaniel responded:
>My experience as a conductor has led me to believe that wind players and
>percussionists often need the extra clarity which a baton provides. When
>I conduct string orchestras, I often lay my baton down. For instance,
>having conducted Barber's Adagio for Strings both with and without baton,
>I much prefer it without.
I really don't think there is a good reason for using or not using a baton.
There are arguments concerning clarity, expressiveness, visibility and so
forth, I just don't see that any of them have a particular relevance. It
is possible to be equally expressive, clear and easy to watch with a baton
or without - what is really important is what happens in the face, mind and
soul.
Conducting isn't about beating time or making expressive gestures; it is
about relationships, understanding (both of music and people), persuasion,
communication, determination and more. You can use a baton or not: it
makes no difference to your success as a conductor.
The one thing which makes all the difference is simply faith. Faith in the
music, the players and in yourself.
Robin Newton
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