In my experience, what orchestra members often dislike about choral conductors is the vagueness in the hand waving, and not so much the lack of baton. (I don't like to use one either.) As long as you are distinct, the orchestra should have no reason to complain. I suppose the baton can be useful, particularly with larger orchestras, but if a choral conductor wants to be liked by an orchestra, a distinct beat in the hands will go a long way (and is just as important with a baton in hand).
|
