Description
Elements of Expressive Conducting begins with a synthesis of various movement theories which allow beginning conducting students to understand how best to use their body as an expressive instrument. Strategies for developing musical expression beyond pedagogical execution are discussed in each chapter. The text further explores merging musical preparation with a healthy, tension-free approach to an individual’s movement. Readers will also find strategies for developing the coordination between the ear and body; ways to transfer “every day” movements to the art of conducting; and suggestions for building to a professional level of success.
Features
- Exercises which stimulate the imagination and inform the body
- Video examples of these exercises on the publisher’s website
- Drawings of imaginative ways to consider beat patterns
- Musical examples chosen to reinforce specific conducting fundamentals
- Practical strategies drawn from the author’s more than four decades of pedagogical experience
About the Authors
Michael Haithcock assumed his duties as director of bands and professor of music (Conducting) at the University of Michigan in the fall of 2001 after twenty-three years on the faculty of Baylor University. Following in the footsteps of William D. Revelli and H. Robert Reynolds, Professor Haithcock conducts the internationally renowned University of Michigan Symphony Band, guides the acclaimed band and wind ensemble graduate conducting program, and provides administrative leadership for all aspects of the University of Michigan’s diverse and historic band program. In February of 2012, he was named an Arthur F. Thurnau Professor by the University of Michigan which is the University’s highest award for excellence in undergraduate teaching.
Contributing authors Brian K. Doyle and Kevin M. Geraldi are both graduates of conducting at the University of Michigan. Dr. Doyle is currently director of bands at SUNY Potsdam, the Crane School of Music. Dr. Geraldi is director of instrumental ensembles and associate professor of conducting at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Jerald Schwiebert is a specialist in expressive movement. He taught at the University of Michigan (emeritus) School of Music, Theatre and Dance for over 20 years.
Giancarlo Guerrero –
I am elated that we finally have a conducting resource from one of the most respected teachers of this subject in the country. By focusing on the basic elements of baton technique, score study, and body movement, the text clearly illuminates how to master each of these necessary topics. His wisdom gained over decades of experience is clearly reflected throughout. This book is required reading for any aspiring conductor.
Giancarlo Guerrero
Grammy winning Music Director of the Nashville Symphony
and the Wroclaw Philharmonic (Poland)
Sandra Snow –
Michael Haithcock has written an antidote to sterile conducting education texts by identifying a disconnect, that conducting technique in and of itself says little about shaping sound. He wisely delays experimentation with patterning, choosing instead to sensitize the new conductor to the kinesphere that reflects bodies in motion. By choosing simple song materials and layering in instructive video, students make direct relationships with sound without the confusion of complex notation. This resource is appropriate for any undergraduate conducting class and is flexible enough to be adapted in ways that suit the instructor’s approach.
Sandra Snow
Professor of Choral Conducting and Chair of Music Education
College of Music, Michigan State University
Frank Battisti –
…an excellent and insightful new book on the teaching of conducting and musical leadership. The focus of the book is on development of body movement, imagination and expressive conducting gestures; abilities and knowledge needed for the conductor to realize the music embodied in a score’s notation. All instructional information is clearly presented and designed to stimulate the student’s ability to hear, analyze and respond to what is heard. The Elements of Expressive Conducting is a significant and valuable addition to the teaching of conducting. Very highly recommended!!!
Frank L. Battisti, Emeritus Conductor
New England Conservatory Wind Ensemble
Boston, Massachusetts