What Does A Conductor Do?

Conductors are usually present in one of the following situations;
Choir
Jazz group
Smaller instrumental ensemble

Some people are confused by the point of a conductor, what do they do? How can the players understand what they are doing?

Like instrumentalists, conductors also have their own sense of style and each will vary from ensemble to ensemble.  The style will also change according to genre as there are different factors to consider, for example, a band leader or conductor of a jazz group will keep the band in time as well as signal when performers are to take solos.

There are some general tips on how to treat conductors before understanding how to follow them.

1) When playing a concert, the performers should always stand an applaud to show respect
2) The lead instrumentalists of each section should follow the conductor the closest. It is their responsibility to lead the other players in their section.
3) Watch the conductor using your peripheral vision.  This will allow you to follow them as well as read your music.
4) When the composer states the next piece of music, quickly and quietly change you music, especially in a concert situation.  Talking and chatting in-between undermines their seniority.

A conductor does so much more than keep time.  They know the music inside out and shape the orchestra, leading them during a performance.