The Art of Conducting

Have you ever secretly conducted orchestral music blasting from your living room stereo, passionately imitating the gyrations of famous maestros? Looks like fun. But conducting is hard. It involves grueling years at a conservatory, learning everything there is to know about music, endless hours studying scores, becoming proficient on the piano (or violin), learning the ropes under the unforgiving guidance of a podium veteran. All the while, having to develop a thick skin—gaining the confidence to recover from embarrassing mistakes, learning how to win over skeptical orchestra players, controlling one's emotions, blood pressure, and ego. Over the course of three classroom sessions, popular music instructor Marc Shulgold uncovers the mysterious art of conducting, along with its storied history. Videos of maestros from the past and present—seen in rehearsals, interviews and performances—demonstrate what makes them great. Also discover the real world of conductors with in-person visits by two respected professionals. Lamont Symphony Orchestra, head of DU's conducting program and director of the school's Lamont Symphony Orchestra, shares his views on what it takes to succeed, and how he teaches young maestros-in-the-making. Finally, attend the Colorado Symphony's April 22 concert in Boettcher Hall, followed by a private backstage chat with Principal Conductor Peter Oundjian. Then, back to your living-room you go—arm-waving with renewed enthusiasm!

Four in-person sessions
Wed., Apr. 12, 19, 26, 2023, 7-9 pm MT
Symphony performance, Sat., Apr. 22, 7:30 pm

Marc Shulgold is a music journalist, concert lecturer and teacher. After working at the Los Angeles Times for 12 years, Marc became the first—and the last—music and dance writer at the Rocky Mountain News, covering the cultural scene throughout the region for nearly 22 years.