Master Class in Conducting: Class Components

REHEARSALS AND PERFORMANCE

At the heart of the Master Class experience is the preparation and presentation of the Discovery Series lecture-concerts featuring national and international artists of the Festival chorus and orchestra. Helmuth Rilling provides instruction and feedback to conducting participants during rehearsals, with further insights through illuminating concert commentaries.

2012 CONDUCTING REPERTOIRE
J.S. Bach: St. Matthew Passion

Class participants will fully immerse themselves in one of the greatest masterpieces of western art, J.S. Bach’s St. Matthew Passion, BWV 244. You will be engaged in lectures, demonstrations, and discussions about the music, form, and text, as the participating conductors lead the oratorio divided into four concerts as part of the OBF Discovery Series. Participants will also receive unique access through observing Helmuth Rilling prepare the orchestra, soloists and the Berwick Chorus for a full performance of the work at the end of the festival. As Maestro Rilling’s legendary 42-year tenure comes to a close in 2013, you don’t want to miss this opportunity to witness the great Bach scholar illuminate the glory and mystery of this epic work.

SEMINARS

Along with the daily schedule of rehearsals, Master Class conductors and auditors attend additional classes on topics critical to effective conducting:

• Conducting technique
• Style and interpretation
• Baroque performance practice
• Repertoire study
• Diction and language
• Recitative and continuo

FIRST HAND EXPERIENCE

Rehearsals

Master Class participants sit on stage to observe rehearsals led by Helmuth Rilling and other members of the OBF artistic staff. This format facilitates further discussion of techniques with Master Class faculty and the performers themselves.

Performances

Class members get free admission to all available OBF concerts, featuring a wide range of artists from around the globe.

Video Review

Evaluate your progress in video recordings throughout the session by way of the internet.