An exact basic position is essential if we want to develop correct gestures.
The freedom, naturalness and character of our arm movements, grow from this basic position.
The most natural and spontaneous position of them all is with the arm parallel to the floor, forming an angle of about 100°, between the arm and the forearm at the elbow. In this way the arm is relaxed and free.
From this position you can command the space in front of you , easily reach every point in every direction and so give greater evidence to a mf or a f and create a crescendo or a diminuendo.
Another merit of this position stems from the fact that the arm, generally, is a little higher than the music stands, so the players , even the ones sitting far in the back , can sense the movement clearly while continuing to read the music.
Conducting masterclass with Ennio Nicotra: the 4 pattern for staccato
There is nothing worse, therefore, than for the conductor to keep his hands on a parallel line higher than his shoulders, with the elbows pointing outwards and upwards, or near his hips. These positions hinder the freedom of movement of the arm and at the same time reduce its potential.
Lesson at the Indiana-Purdue University with the Fort Wayne Philharmonic
