Stick Time: Pass the Baton, Literally

Giving a student the stick is one of those “Pay it Forward” things we are supposed to do as choral educators.  When we identify a student with both musical aptitude and the interest in becoming a conductor, it is incumbent upon us to then provide that fledgling conductor an opportunity to lead the ensemble in a selection during a concert.  It is a lovely right-of-passage that has started many a career.

 

Typically, a conductor hands over the stick during a local concert in one’s home auditorium.  While those concerts are important, a home performance carries a certain element of artistic safety.  Should a student conductor flail about, the partisan crowd isn’t too likely to revolt.

 

Stepping down to allow a student to conduct during a concert at an ACDA conference is something completely different, and is decidedly rare.  Let’s face it, those performance slots are highly prized, with many of us working our entire careers to catch that brass ring.  Yet, there are a few conductors who are so secure in themselves and so dedicated to their students’ development that they graciously surrender time on that coveted podium.

 

Here is one such performance from a recent ACDA divisional conference, with a colleague demonstrating tremendous magnanimousness.  Have you gone above and beyond the call for your students?