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Jonathan Schott (Central Michigan University), Making Informed Decisions about Baton and Free-Hand Conducting in Choral Music


The purpose of this literature review is to identify reasons to use and not use a baton in conducting choral music. The role of a conductor is to be sensitive to the needs of his/her ensemble. The baton was not considered standard practice until the time of Franz Lizst and Richard Wagner, yet came under scrutiny starting in the late 1930s. Therefore choral conductors must be aware of baton technique regardless of whether or not they use it, since some choirs may function more efficiently under the direction of one. The baton is an effective tool when clarity of gestures is of utmost impor- tance to the conductor-ensemble relationship. By technolog- ical measurement, advantages of a baton are increased levels of concentration and precise rhythm, while the baton is a disadvantage during slower expressive passages. In teach- ing conducting, a baton helps novices avoid and eliminate unnecessary gestures, and helps separate the role of the left hand, especially helping to avoid parallel or mirror gestures between the right and left hands.


Experts agree that a baton in orchestral conducting is a need rather than a preference because of the size of the ensemble, so all members can see the patterns of the conductor; the same experts inform that works that require fewer musicians can be kept together as well without a baton as the baton was invented as an instrument of visibility. Conducting without a baton is preferred with music that follows a ritualistic rather than musical logic, is not based on time signatures, employs poetic rather than musical meters, focuses on the text rather than the music, or otherwise leaves interpretation open.


Ultimately, the use of the baton is the discretion of the con- ductor, but it is important for choral conductors to have the option. Therefore, they must be proficient in both baton and free-hand technique. For works requiring a large ensemble, an orchestra, or for music focusing on rhythmically tight passages and precision, it is recommended that a baton be used. For music during the times when meter were not used or if the music focuses on text and interpretation rather than rhythm, then free-hand is recommended.


Matthew T. Gallick (Central Michigan University), Convincing an Increase in Music in Education and Society: A Literature Review of the Benefits of Music in Relation to Learning and Quality of Life


The purpose of this literature review is to demonstrate how music benefits mental focus, memory, anxiety, pain relief, and human communication, which in turn enhances edu- cation and quality of life. Troubles focusing in academic settings diagnosed in students from kindergarten through


college have led to drastic increases in prescribing, over- prescribing, and abuse of drugs such as Adderall or Ritalin. Across the same time, music and other fine arts have been pulled from academic curriculums worldwide, in spite of ex- tensive research supporting the learning benefits music pro- vides students of all ages. Five benefits to learning and hu- man wellness were identified in the literature: mental focus, memory, anxiety, pain relief, and human communication.


Music enhances memory, which is instrumental for learning new material. Concepts can be memorized more efficiently when mixed with a musical activity. Such memory benefits of musical activity have been demonstrated in the elderly, as well as rhythms and familiar tunes helping to engage the attention of those suffering from dementia or amnesia. Mu- sic has been shown to provide relief for individuals in anxi- ety- or pain-inducing situations. Procedures such as lumbar punctures, cesarean births, or cardiac catheterizations may be less stressful for individuals when active or passive lis- tening of music is involved. Improvisation is a musical in- tervention music therapists frequently use to relieve anxiety in their clients, which also might help with communication development. Use of the voice through singing is a popular music therapy technique to get patients to interact, help vo- calize thoughts, and stimulate a relaxed state. Use of music, in general, brings people of diverse backgrounds together. Based on these varied benefits of music, schools and society should promote increased musical activity to bring popula- tions together and enhance our quality of life and learning.


Shannon Shaker (Central Michigan University), Inspiring from the Podium: A Review of Personality, Motivation, and Communication in Literature


The purpose of this literature review is to examine connec- tion of leadership, motivational theories, and communica- tion to suggest a three-step global strategy for conductors to inspire ensemble musicians toward their maximum po- tential. The claim of a number of experts that personality is the key to success as a conductor offers nothing concerning the improvement of aspiring conductors, nor toward measur- ing what acceptable or unacceptable personalities may be. What can be measured are characteristics, behaviors, and leadership qualities of successful conductors, all of which are determined by personality. Unlike personality, these can be applied toward developing as an inspirational conductor. Leadership qualities of a conductor are readily apparent to the musicians of an ensemble because of the visible position of leadership. Influential leaders identify their strongest and weakest qualities, promoting identified strengths while di- minishing the influence of identified weaknesses, and prac- tice appropriate leadership styles. There is no single correct leadership style, as individuals and groups are motivated by differing approaches. Facilitative, autocratic, and servitude


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