Texts and Supplementary Materials:

• Hunsberger, Donald and Ernst, Roy E.. The Art of Conducting (Second Edition). New York : McGraw Hill, 1992. (used in MT 405: Conducting)
• Stotter, Douglas. Methods and Materials for Conducting. Chicago : GIA, 2006.
• Holst, Gustav (ed. Colin Matthews). First Suite in Eb. London : Boosey & Hawkes, 1921.
• Grainger, Percy. Irish Tune from County Derry .
• Elgar, Edward. Serenade for Strings in E. Boca Raton (MI): Kalmus, 1892.
• Baton
• Class packet (supplied by the instructor)

Course Activities and Preparation:

Classes will consist of a mixture of lectures, discussions, and conducting experiences. Your participation in these activities, along with outside reading and practice, will dictate how much you gain from the course. You are expected to come to each class having prepared for that day's activity. If it is unclear what your responsibilities are for the next class you should contact the instructor for clarification.

Conducting is a skill that must be studied, practiced and refined just like any other musical activity. It is important that you spend a significant amount of time outside of class practicing the gestures and techniques being studied. It is recommended that you regularly use a mirror or videotape as you practice in order to gain feedback on your progress. Also, observing experienced conductors in rehearsal and performance can provide a powerful opportunity to learn about the craft and expand your repertoire of gestures.

Attendance:

Due to the participatory nature of the class it is imperative that you be present and on time for all class meetings. You will be allowed only one unexcused absence without affecting your grade for the course. Any additional absences will cause your grade to be lowered by one grade level. (In other words, A to A- etc.) Absences from conducting experiences cannot be made up. If you are sick, or experience an emergency of any kind the expectation is that you contact the professor via telephone or e-mail before the class. More than two days of illness will require some kind of note from a physician. Chronic absences or tardiness will result in your removal from the course.