The Conductor

What does he do?

In order to play together, an orchestra needs a leader -- someone who decides how fast to play and exactly when to start and stop. That's the job of the conductor. The conductor needs to keep the orchestra playing together at the right speed. To do that, he/she must show a steady beat: this is called "beating time." Beating time is done with a regular movement of the right hand, usually holding a short stick called a baton.

Click on the picture of Francisco Noya, our resident conductor, to find out more about him.
Back in the 17th century a large stick, like a cane, was used to beat time. This was clumsy and made a lot of noise; it could also be dangerous. A French composer named Lully once hit his foot while conducting with a large cane. His foot became infected and he died!

In the 18th Century the leader of the violins (the concertmaster) would sometimes use his bow to beat time. Sometimes the person playing the harpsichord with the orchestra would beat time by nodding his head, or by waving one arm. When the orchestra got bigger in the 19th century, it was necessary to have a leader stand in front where all the players could see him/her. This person did not play in the orchestra, just conducted. At first, a violin bow was used to conduct, and then a heavy rod. Now the conductor uses a light wooden stick, sometimes painted white.

The music director of an orchestra decides the overall musical direction of the organization and what music the orchestra will play on each program. The music director also selects guest artists and designs special events. Frequently, one person will serve as both music director and conductor.
Here are the most typical conducting patterns:
Two Beats
If the music moves in sets of 2 beats to the measure, the conductor brings the baton straight down then back up.
Three Beats
If the music moves in sets of 3 beats to the measure, the conductor brings the baton straight down, over to the side, then back up like a triangle.
Four Beats
If the music moves in sets of 4 beats to the measure, the conductor brings the baton straight down, over to the side, over to the other side, then back up.
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