Following on from highly successful Conductor Training weekends in previous years, run by the RNCM’s Centre for Excellence in Teaching and Learning, the College is looking for applications for three days of master classes with RNCM Conducting Faculty members Mark Shanahan, Mark Heron and Clark Rundell.

Orchestras and ensembles for the weekend will be formed from local orchestras and students from the RNCM and Manchester University.

Up to 30 active places are available for participants with some previous conducting experienceRNCM

Practical

The course is open to both active conductors and observers and will focus on key practical issues including conducting technique, interpretation, rehearsal and preparation.

Topics of interest

In addition to sessions with a variety of orchestras and ensembles there will be workshops with rehearsal pianists and discussions on topics of interest to conductors led by other RNCM Faculty members. Video playback facilities will also be available and all participants will receive a DVD of their conducting over the weekend.

Repertoire

Repertoire will include:
Shostakovich- Symphony No 5
Beethoven — Symphony No 7
Stravinsky — Octet
Mozart — Serenade in Eb K375
Arnold — Scottish Dances
Holst — Suite No 2 for Military Band
Opera Scenes (repertoire to be confirmed)

Available places

Up to 30 active places are available for participants with some previous conducting experience.

Observers are also invited to watch the practical sessions and to participate in group discussions. The organisers hope this opportunity will be of interest to conductors of any level or to anyone who is interested in how gesture and body language can be used in leadership.

Fees and information

The course fees are £150 for the weekend for active participants and £50 for observers.

For further information and application details please email: esther.wakeman@rncm.ac.uk