Essential Skills for a Principal Conductor

A resident of Columbus, Ohio, Maestro Alessandro Siciliani is the son of famous opera patron and conductor Francesco Siciliani. An accomplished artist in his own right, Alessandro Siciliani served as the music director of the Columbus Symphony for over a decade.

Although there is no “correct” way to interpret a musical work, there are certain skills that conductors need to possess to be successful. For example, conductors need to have a high level of mastery of at least one musical instrument. Developing the insight required to interpret a piece is difficult without experiencing it from the performer’s perspective.

Conductors also need to have well-developed listening skills and a finely-tuned ear for discerning problems in orchestral intonation, balance, and color. Moreover, an understanding of all of the instruments in orchestral performance and practical experience in composing are key skills.

Conductors must be comfortable using a baton or other implement to effectively maintain the rhythm, line, and structure of compositions. Additionally, conductors should be able to give practical direction in rehearsals and have an awareness of their podium presence and body language as it ties into the quality of the music-making process.