What are composers doing when they’re waving the stick?

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If everyone has sheet music and all the timing information down, then what’s the composer’s role?

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Anonymous 0 Comments

The composer’s role is to compose the musical piece that will be played by the orchestra.

The CONDUCTOR, will set the tempo of the piece with his baton. They will also “bring in” specific players or soloists by cuing them with said baton.

When there are changes to the piece, either in tempo or emphasis, the orchestra members will, again, take their cues from the conductor’s baton.

The reason that the conductor is the one who sets the tempo is best summed up with an old musician’s joke . . .

How can you tell when a drummer is knocking at your door?

The speed of the knocks gets faster.

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