Episode

S2E2: From paper to performance - score study, imagination & listening like crazy

Join us for a compelling discussion about the importance of score study for conductors and its impact on ensemble players. 

Listen in as we share our unique perspectives, including Tom's insight as a player and Ingrid's transition from starting with recordings to starting with the score. We both emphasize the need to approach score study with a clear vision of the ideal version of the piece, instead of being swayed by the current ensemble's limitations. 

The conversation continues as we explore the art of music interpretation, starting with the score and no instrument. Tune in as we discuss the importance of making informed choices and using the score as a performance outline. We also highlight the benefits of listening to multiple recordings for variety, avoiding getting stuck on a single version. 

Lastly, we delve into the significance of imagination in interpreting music and the role of recordings in preparation for a performance. Get inspired as we discuss creating a clear mental orchestra to develop a personal interpretation of a piece.

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CREDITS

Hosts: Ingrid Martin & Tom Grayden

Editing: Tom Grayden & Ingrid Martin

Music: The Crosswinds Ensemble

Recorded at the University of Melbourne

S2E7: Memorable Performances - Balancing Stability vs. Risk Taking

How do you plan for and reveal that extra level of energy in the performance and connect meaningfully with the audience? What's required to balance stability vs. risk-taking onstage? How can we best use limited sound-check time to instil confidence while meeting everyone's needs and preserving energy?

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S2E6: Final Rehearsals - Cultivating Confidence and Security

What's the goal of final rehearsals? How do we ensure preparedness while keeping the music fresh? How do we need to adapt our rehearsals to build confidence in groups that perform rarely vs. those that perform often? What's the value of practicing performing, rather than just rehearsing? We tackle all this and more in this episode focussed on final rehearsals and sound checks.

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S2E5: Fostering Engagement with Questions, Conviction & Repetition

How do you know when to keep working at a passage or just move on? How do you balance your own interpretation vs. making space for the musicians' ideas? What's the role of non-verbal communication in effective rehearsals? What might we learn from taking more notice of what's going on in the room?

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