Conducting

Performing in front of an audience, such as at an orchestral or choral concert, is the skill of conducting. It has been described as "the skill of guiding the simultaneous performance of many players or singers by the use of gesture." It is a kind of performance art. Among the conductor's main responsibilities are to interpret the score in a manner that is consistent with the particular instructions in that score, establish the pace, ensure that all ensemble members make proper entrances, and "shape" the phrase when necessary, among other things. Conductors communicate with their players mainly via hand gestures, which are typically carried out with the assistance of a baton. They may sometimes use other gestures or signs, like as eye contact, to convey their instructions. A conductor's written directive is typically supplemented by vocal directions to their musicians during a practise session.