Directing Focus

Directing focus is a big part of what I think about as a conductor:

  • How do we direct focus towards the voice part with the melody?
  • How do I direct focus away from myself and to my students?
  • How do I maintain the ensemble’s focus on the music at hand?

It’s also a major part of effective composition and arranging:

  • How do I make sure the melody is the focus?
  • How do I ensure the piece retains the audience’s focus?
  • How do I direct my focus towards crafting and completing a musical creation?

In so many ways, the art of directing focus is at the center of effective work. How do you think about directing focus in your work?