Conducting soprano line
Well, my first conducting experience did not go as well as I'd hoped. I had trouble remembering the breaths in the line even after several attempts to memorize them. I think there was something about being up in front of people that caused my memory to fail. Hopefully, with more experience, I'll be able to recall things better in front of a group.
After my first two attempts at conducting the soprano line, Matt told me that my right hand was flying way out to the right and that it was causing insecurity in my singers. He suggested that I not allow my hand to move past my elbow and the effect was amazing. The singers sounded way more confident and I felt more in control of my movements as well.
One other thing I need to be careful of is subdividing with my hand and wrist. I tend to feel multiple beats when I listen to a piece and I think this is why my hand bobs up and down, independent of my arm, while I'm conducting. It will be a challenge to relearn how to conduct without this subdivision and without increased tension in my arm.
Overall, this was an eye-opening first experience. I know even better now where I need to improve, which will be incredibly helpful for this week. Hopefully my next conducting attempt will yield decreased incidents of subdivision, a more engaged face, and an appropriately contained hand.
Comments
Lisa
Some very good perceptions. You did a very excellent job in your first experience. In terms of the subdividing. Watch yourself as you practice, either in a mirror, or if yoiu have an webcam tape your self conducting and atch to see how you did. And remember that you are allowed to break your wrist if you want, but you don't always have to do. Ask yourself, "does this motion have meaning? Does it add to the music? If no, then it is probably not necessry.
Posted by: Matthew Mehaffey | September 24, 2007 05:57 PM