THE LEARNING CONDUCTOR – SNYO CONDUCTING SEMINAR WITH PETER STARK

Photo by Emma Smith
 
PETER STARK 
  Professor of Conducting  Royal College of Music, London
  Rehearsal Director  European Union Youth Orchestra
  Principal Guest Conductor  Singapore National Youth Orchestra

“Conducting is essentially a silent activity, but one always practises with sound. Strip away the noise and the conductor’s ability to communicate becomes clear.”

Peter Stark’s unique course focuses on the individual, with an emphasis on observing and discussing skills and difficulties. Communication, body use and baton skills are investigated in great depth.

Baton technique is discussed in detail but as a means to an end rather than an end in itself. The communication of body language, rehearsal technique and physical awareness is also investigated. This course introduces the Alexander Technique: the use of the body as a method of communicating advanced musical ideas – phrasing, balance, architecture etc. – and as a language by which one communicates concepts and thoughts. Much is made of how silence can be used to create effect and message. This radical approach is the heart of our work.

This course is for everyone, from students to professionals. It caters for those who have purpose and vision, rather than conducting experience. Discussion sessions are analytical and critical but given within a supportive environment. Peter Stark’s wealth of experience provides a background where each and every participant cannot fail to learn and improve. Participants will go away with a clear idea of how they come across, and how to proceed towards further development in their own surroundings.

Welcome To Apply!

Active Participants – Conductors:
  • We welcome early-career professionals, band directors, choral directors and tertiary students to participate in the conducting seminar. 
  • As there are limited slots, those applying to be Active Participants are to submit a copy of their C.V. along with a video of their conducting to be considered.
  • Those who have been selected as Active Participants will be have the opportunity to conduct an ensemble on the third day of the course.
  • The fee for each conducting participant is $150.
Observers:
  • Music professionals and music students are welcome to observe this seminar at a fee of $60 per person for the entire seminar.
Information on Fees:
  • Fees for Active Participants / Observers will have to be paid by attendees before the event date in order to confirm your participation / attendance slot.
  • Further information on payment details will be sent via email to registered persons after we receive your application via the online sign-up form below.
  • Full time students are eligible to apply for a full waiver of fees upon producing a valid student pass / matriculation card.
 
Venue: SNYO Studios, 80 Bencoolen Street, Level 7, NAFA Tower Block, Singapore 189655

Schedule

All registered Active Participants & Observers should attend the entire programme as scheduled.
Please inform us via email (snyo@sso.org.sg) with ample notice if you are not able to attend all the sessions.
Schedule is subject to change.
 
Fri, 1 Dec 2023, 6pm - 9pm (Conducting Seminar – Silent Conducting)
Sat, 2 Dec 2023, 7.30pm - 9.30pm (Conducting Seminar – Silent Conducting)
Sun, 3 Dec 2023, 10am - 1pm (Conducting with an Ensemble)

Repertoire for Conducting Seminar

COPLAND  Appalachian Spring Suite for 13 Instruments
Digital scores will be sent via email to all selected Active Participants and Observers after the registration closing date.

Sign Up Now

Please sign up via the link below, where you may indicate if you are applying as an Active Participant or Observer.
Registration Deadline: 12 Nov 2023
 
     Registration Deadline: 12 Nov 2023    
 
 
FAQ: How do I submit my C.V. (and recording) to apply to be an Active Participant?
Please submit your C.V. and recording via email to snyo@sso.org.sg. You can send us your recording in a format of your choice, e.g., as a link to an unlisted YouTube video, via Dropbox, etc.
 
FAQ: Can I register as an Observer if I have not been shortlisted as an Active Participant?
Due to a limited number of slots for Active Participants, we will inform you via email after the registration closing date whether you have been shortlisted to participate in the conducting masterclass. If you have not been shortlisted, you may then proceed to let us know if you would like to take part as an Observer throughout the Conducting Seminar. The fees for Observers will be payable upon confirmation.
 
Please do contact us at snyo@sso.org.sg for any questions, or if you require any further clarification.
 
(Photo: Peter Stark demonstrating on the podium during the masterclass, SNYO Studios, December 2019)
 
(Photo: Participants of the Conducting Seminar with Peter Stark, SNYO Studios, December 2019)