What are the particular challenges/excitements of working with an orchestra/ensemble?
I think the biggest challenge is to be able to ignite in my players and singers the desire to make the best music they are capable of. The task of the conductor can’t be micromanaging musicians all the time. Of course, there is a bit of that during rehearsal, and it is necessary to have acute ears and be precise. But then on the stage we need to let go. And there is the challenge, to achieve control and freedom at the same time. Needless to say, this is also the most exciting part of the job!
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