Programs · Episode

Conducting Changes Over the Centuries

Aired: Sunday, May 13, 2018 @ 9:00 am
Hosted by Miles Hoffman

The tools and techniques of conducting have changed a great deal over the centuries. Learn more about how conducting has changed over the centuries in this episode of A Minute with Miles.

Full Episode:

The tools and techniques of conducting have changed a great deal over the centuries. In the Middle Ages and Renaissance, people who led musical performances, especially vocal performances, usually simply waved their hands in the air to indicate the shape and speed of melodies. Although sometimes they also held the long wooden staff in one hand and marked beats with it. 

During the Baroque Period and to the early Classical Period, larger instrumental ensembles were usually led by a harpsichord player waving a rolled up piece of paper, or parchment, or by the principle violinist of the group waving his bow. It wasn't until the 19th century that orchestral conducting became a separate specialty. And that the baton became the conductors instrument of choice. And here's a strange fact: in early 19th century opera performances, the conductor often stood right next to the stage facing the singers, but with his back to the orchestra.