FAQs

Anyone can apply, regardless of age, level of education, instrument, and conducting experience. If you have any questions about your application, feel free to contact us on girtonconducting@gmail.com

This method of conducting is founded upon clear and musical communication to players through gesture. Baton technique, stance, use of the body and the non-baton hand are all dealt with in detail. The basis of this course is the long-established Toscanini/Barzin technique

The musical foundation of the course is the classical orchestral repertoire and a tradition of performing it which runs from Liszt, Wagner, Richter, Nikisch, to Pierre Monteux and George Hurst and to the current tutors

We encourage all participants to watch The Craft of Conducting by Denise Ham. These videos give a thorough introduction to the technique taught on the course

It is possible to arrange private lessons with the tutors prior to the course. Please contact us if this is of interest

You may record your own conducting in Orchestral Sessions, Piano Workshops, and Repertoire Sessions. We may provide some equipment to assist this but we encourage participants to bring their own equipment (phones with good cameras, stands, external microphones, memory cards, etc.)

Yes, all students will be invited to conduct the class ensemble. Selected students will be invited to conduct the repertoire orchestra at the discretion of the tutors. Sessions with the class ensemble are designed to help students with their technique in an orchestral situation

Repertoire Sessions will be directed by the tutors and conducted by students who have displayed a thorough knowledge of the score and the technique. This way the whole class receives a lesson on the music and on rehearsal technique

We strongly encourage orchestral musicians to bring their instruments. This will enable us to form a class ensemble, and it is an excellent way for participants to experience the effect that different conductors have on the playing. Pianists who are competent readers will be encouraged to assist in playing piano reductions where necessary and to fill in missing instruments in orchestral sessions

Participants and observers who play an orchestral instrument should bring this, as well as their own music stand. International participants may get in touch if this is a problem and we will be happy to assist in finding a solution

Everyone should bring their own baton. Participants should bring all scores in legible format. We encourage the use of printed scores. However, participants are allowed to conduct from digital scores, assuming that the format and equipment is no hindrance when conducting

Towels and bedlinen will be provided.

Read more about the facilities at Girton College here

The day starts with warm-up and technique – usually outside on one of the beautiful lawns (weather permitting!). The class then splits into workshops according to experience and ability where each student receives personal tuition within the group. Each workshop has a professional pianist. There are also regular workshops with the class ensemble and repertoire sessions with an expanded orchestra, incorporating additional players from outside the course. Early in the course John Longstaff will give score study and musicianship sessions

A timetable can be found under ‘Course content’

Cambridge can be reached from most major cities by train or coach. The nearest airport is London Stansted Airport, but travel from other London airports may be cheaper or quicker. We refer to National Rail’s website for details about planning and ticket purchase. Throughout the summer, occasional train strikes should be expected. See National Rail’s page about Industrial Action for further information. Please get in touch if you need further assistance.

The college is located near the M11 and the A14