Is becoming a conductor right for me?

The first step to choosing a career is to make sure you are actually willing to commit to pursuing the career. You don’t want to waste your time doing something you don’t want to do. If you’re new here, you should read about:

Overview
What do conductors do?
Career Satisfaction
Are conductors happy with their careers?
Personality
What are conductors like?

Still unsure if becoming a conductor is the right career path? to find out if this career is right for you. Perhaps you are well-suited to become a conductor or another similar career!

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How to become a Conductor

Working as a conductor can be challenging and requires a deep understanding of musical theory beyond simple appreciation. A conductor needs to understand the elements of musical composition from the ground up, including tempo, harmony, dynamics, and theory.

Among many guidelines laid out by Sir Henry Wood in 1945, a background in musical performance is a must, whether that is through obtaining a formal music degree or music theory and composition degree at a university, or being educated through private instruction, preferably by an established musical director.

It is also recommended that one interested in becoming a conductor also be able to play at least one musical instrument, but familiar with a variety of others; the piano and a string instrument being the most preferable.