A key question for conductors to ask themselves is, “Have I prepared my ensemble so that they achieve even when I’m not there?”
My students are performing tomorrow at State Solo & Ensemble. I won’t be there, nor am I at their rehearsal tonight.
It is profoundly difficult for me to not be with my students, guiding them at this crucial juncture. On the other hand, I’m aware how remarkably lucky I am to have the best sub conductor I could possibly imagine, in my wife Mandy.
In this moment, I have to trust that the lessons I’ve taught, the work we’ve done, in the weeks leading up to tonight and tomorrow have done their job. I try to operate with a “plan for a snow day” mentality, which certainly accounts for sick days, too.
I don’t want to be the type of conductor who achieves with an iron fist or a cult of personality – the type whose physical presence is required. I want to teach my lessons in a way that empowers my students to take ownership themselves, so that they can overcome any challenge and reach their potential, whether I can be with them or not.