On September 19th, NAfME had the pleasure of watching RSO as they rehearsed for their concert. We got to enjoy Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition and Rachmaninov’s Piano Concerto No. 2. The RSO sounded splendid and demonstrated the professional atmosphere we all desire in our own ensembles.
After the rehearsal Professor Kynan Johns sat down for a Q&A with some of our members. When asked about his advice for aspiring conductors, Professor Johns recommended they learn the repertoire as soon as possible. It can be difficult to learn all the repertoire when you’re young and trying to find as much work as possible. But learning the repertoire early will help you find jobs and keep jobs. You often have to conduct a concert with little notice. Having familiarity with a piece helps tremendously.
Similarly, Professor Johns chooses repertoire that his instrumentalists should be familiar with. Many musicians in RSO want to play in orchestras and are always taking auditions. It is immediately obvious when someone has played an excerpt with an ensemble. RSO aims to provide as many of those experiences as possible so that our musicians can be successful in those auditions and eventually in their career.
Professor Johns also spoke on one’s relationship with the ensemble. As a conductor you have to put in the work and be prepared. If you aren’t prepared then the musicians will take issue. One should also have some familiarity with each instrument. You don’t need to be an expert in the bass flute, but you should know what each instrument can do. Knowing what each instrument can add to the aural image, and how to ask for it, are excellent qualities in a conductor. Be careful though, not to be too harsh on those who play your primary instrument. You may know more about the clarinet or violin than any other instrument, but don’t be overbearing. The musicians, particularly if they are professionals, may not appreciate the focus on them.
Professor Johns put on an excellent rehearsal and concert. His wise words of advice are much appreciated. We look forward to putting them into practice with our own ensembles someday.
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