Topmusicanswers
- Why do conductors conduct off beat?
- Why do orchestras seem to play behind the beat?
- What does a music conductor really do?
Why do conductors conduct off beat?
So, beating ahead gives the musicians the chance to follow the conductor's instructions with a bit of warning. ... Yet amateur orchestra conductors tend more typically to conduct on the beat, to act as a clear metronome for the musicians (Bernstein wouldn't like it, but hey-ho, it's good to be in time).
Why do orchestras seem to play behind the beat?
Here's the simple response: When an orchestra plays behind the conductor, it has the room to produce a more expressive sound. ... Waiting a tick allows the ensemble to take in the trajectory, speed and style of a conductor's beat, which helps them determine what kind of sound the conductor is hoping to achieve.
What does a music conductor really do?
The conductor's job is to fight the group's influence and keep the music moving at a steady pace. Using patterns like the one below, conductors draw shapes in the air, guiding the musicians through the music, bouncing on each beat to keep everyone moving at the same time.
