Music Directors

Use gestures to shape the music being played, communicating desired tempo, phrasing, tone, color, pitch, volume, and other performance aspects.

Direct groups at rehearsals and live or recorded performances to achieve desired effects such as tonal and harmonic balance dynamics, rhythm, and tempo.

Study scores to learn the music in detail, and to develop interpretations.

Consider such factors as ensemble size and abilities, availability of scores, and the need for musical variety, to select music to be performed.

Audition and select performers for musical presentations.

Plan and schedule rehearsals and performances, and arrange details such as locations, accompanists, and instrumentalists.

Collaborate with music librarians to ensure availability of scores.

Position members within groups to obtain balance among instrumental or vocal sections.

Perform administrative tasks such as applying for grants, developing budgets, negotiating contracts, and designing and printing programs and other promotional materials.

Meet with soloists and concertmasters to discuss and prepare for performances.

Meet with composers to discuss interpretations of their work.

Plan and implement fundraising and promotional activities.

Engage services of composers to write scores.

Conduct guest soloists in addition to ensemble members.

Assign and review staff work in such areas as scoring, arranging, and copying music, and vocal coaching.

Coordinate and organize tours, or hire touring companies to arrange concert dates, venues, accommodations, and transportation for longer tours.

Transcribe musical compositions and melodic lines to adapt them to a particular group, or to create a particular musical style.

Confer with clergy to select music for church services.

Practice playing musical instruments.

Compose instrumental or vocal music.