What does a Music Conductor do?

A musical ensemble is made up of multiple musicians who are each responsible for performing a portion of a piece of music. The Music Conductor is responsible for making all of these individual parts sound cohesive. By providing visual cues, they signal when musicians should play or pause and control the volume and tempo.

Music conductors allow audiences to enjoy musical performances to the fullest by leading the performers and educating listeners through written and oral comments. They also contribute to their employers’ financial success by carrying out the marketing and advertising-related duties.

Music Conductor skills and qualifications

Success in a Music Conductor role requires certain skills and qualifications. Listing the following points in your Music Conductor job description can encourage quality candidates to apply for your open position:

• In-depth knowledge of music theory, music translation, music history, music analysis, musical arranging and orchestration

• Ear training ability to be able to identify notes played and identify errors

• Interpersonal skills to provide constructive feedback and promote a positive working environment

• Leadership skills to direct the activities of musicians and maintain a cohesive team

• Decision-making skills to determine how to interpret music and assign chairs and solos

• Verbal and written communication skills to interact effectively with musicians, donors, audience members and other individuals

• Ability to utilize a baton, facial expressions and gestures to communicate with musicians

• Computer skills to use music composition and notation software, electronic mail, word processing and other software programs

Music Conductor experience requirements

Music Conductors often receive hands-on experience directing musical ensembles during their education programs. Whether candidates will benefit from having additional experience depends on the nature of your open position. Generally, the higher the ticket price for performances, the more skilled and experienced a conductor may need to be.

To lead a student or small community musical ensemble, a Music Conductor may need no work history, but for conducting an ensemble in a major city or a world-renowned orchestra or chorus, 10 or more years of experience may be necessary.

Music Conductor education and training requirements

The minimum education for a Music Conductor is generally a college degree in music conducting, music theory, music performance or a related field. Programs in conducting may award bachelor’s, master’s or doctorate degrees. As with experience, the amount of education necessary to succeed as a Music Conductor will vary based on the size and prestige of the ensemble.

Although there are no professional certifications for Music Conductors, some employers prefer to hire candidates who belong to a professional organization, such as the International Conductors Guild or the American Choral Directors Association (ACDA). These groups provide networking, educational and mentoring opportunities for Music Conductors.

Job description samples for similar positions

If the Music Conductor job description discussed above doesn’t align with your open position, explore the following alternative job titles:

• Art Director

• Music Producer

• Teacher

Music Conductor job description FAQs

What’s the difference between a Music Conductor and a Music Director?

Music Directors and Conductors may both interpret music, make decisions about a music ensemble’s makeup and lead rehearsals. However, Music Directors often have additional duties, such as establishing and managing budgets and overseeing fundraising activities. Some organizations may hire a Music Director instead of a Music Conductor. Others have two separate roles, with the Music Director overseeing management and administrative duties and the Music Conductor focusing on leading rehearsals and interpreting musical compositions.

What does an Orchestra Conductor do compared to a Choral Conductor?

An Orchestra Conductor and a Choral Conductor perform the same basic job duties but lead different types of musical ensembles. Orchestra Conductors work with orchestras made up of instrumental musicians, while Choral Conductors lead choruses of singers.

How is a Music Supervisor different from a Music Conductor?

Music Supervisors and Music Conductors often work together in musical theater, opera and ballet. The Music Supervisor coordinates the activities of the on-stage performers with the musicians who accompany them, while the Music Conductor leads the musicians. When organizations have both positions, the Music Supervisor generally interprets the score in consultation with the Music Conductor and the show’s Director and Producers.

What’s the difference between a Music Composer and a Music Conductor?

A Music Composer writes musical compositions for musicians to perform. A Music Conductor interprets the Music Composer’s work and leads the ensembles that perform it.