Conducting 101: The Foundations of Conducting Technique And Ensemble Direction

This three-hour workshop is aimed at new or inexperienced conductors, those with conducting techniques that are a little on the “rusty” side, and as a primer for those who are intending to enrol for the ABODA Victoria Summer Conducting School coming up in January. In a very supportive, non-judgmental and fun environment, the workshop will provide an opportunity to both review and improve your conducting skills.

Rob Wagner

Rob is a retired Director of Music and Exemplar Teacher at Eltham College. He has also been director of several long-term community music organisations. Rob has conducted bands internationally in Spain, England, China and New Zealand. He is a music consultant, adjudicator, guest conductor at music camps, and he presents workshops for schools, bands and teachers throughout Australia. Rob held the position of Vice President of ABODA Victoria for six years and is the recipient of the ABODA Victoria Award for Teaching Excellence in Ensemble Direction and an ABODA Life Member.

About the workshop

In this session, Rob will explore many elements of technique including beat patterns, left hand gestures, exercises to improve left- and right-hand independence, phrasing, dynamics, releases, rests, tempo changes, cueing and more. But conducting is not just about technique! The workshop will offer some tips for achieving more effective ensemble rehearsals and, of course, we discuss the music. After all, it’s all about THE MUSIC!

Who Should Attend

• Graduate Music Teachers

• School & Community Conductors of bands and orchestras

• Instrumental teachers

Breakdown

1.45pm – Registration and Networking

2.00pm – Practical Conducting Techniques and Drills

3.15pm – Conducting on the podium in front of a mixed ensemble made up of participants playing their instruments

5.00pm – End

Please bring a conductor’s baton and your instrument!