so you want to conduct jazz...

...but don't know where to start?

The role of the conductor in a jazz band is quite a bit different than in a traditional concert band or orchestra. If at ALL possible, find a way to observe a professional jazz ensemble director to get ideas and assist in the development of your personal style. There are certain things that you should try to do whilst conducting a jazz ensemble.

Neil Yorke-Slader has summarized in 8 simple steps:

What the Role of the Jazz Ensemble Conductor really is:

Count in the band (2 or even 4 bars is acceptable preparation)
Cue entries and shots
Indicate dynamics, balance adjustments
Adjust mikes, PA levels

DON'T

Over conduct (4-beat pattern, jumping around, "flailing")
Undermine the role of the rhythm section. Intervene in the "time" only if it is falling apart
Use a baton. Only Lawrence Welk uses one (I rest my case!)
Be the focus of the band. Get them to present themselves 50 feet away, not to you 5 feet away. Advance the concepts of projection, confidence, power, energy, etc.

There you have it! A simple 8-step program to help you on your way to being a jazz conductor!
I am far from becoming a jazz conductor, but I'm working on it!

Reflections on watching my Associate Teacher conduct Jazz

Jazz was where my Associate was in his element. I loved rehearsing with the Jazz Band so I could observe his conducting. Then again, as it isn't conducting in the traditional sense, I'm not sure if it really SHOULD be called conducting! Maybe directing is more appropriate?

It's amazing the results he could get from the band without beating time. I know: this is one of the simple rules stated above, but it amazes me! In the olden but golden days, orchestral conductors first mission was to keep time. Alas, everything develops differently! It makes sense for the rhythm sense to be the driving force in such music -- it is just something I am still having difficulty adjusting to!

My Associate was able to keep the band together with such great ease. There were times when the band began to crumble, but a few quick words and gestures from my Associate and everything was back on track. On top of that, he was incredibly conversant with the scores. He knew them inside out, and could cue each entry without even looking at his score. This is what I am striving to be!

My Associate followed Neil Yorke-Slader's rules to a "T". It was such a thrill to hear him say "1, 2, 1-2-3-4," complete with snaps on the weak beats of the bar. It never ceases to amaze me that this WORKS!

I had the opportunity to perform with the band during their Music Night. We had had a dress rehearsal that afternoon, but not with my Associate and not at the venue. Needless to say, it was a bit of a dry run during the concert. As we played the concert, my Associate ensured the mikes were in the proper place and the PA levels were adjusted..... and the band played on! He even talked as we played, which went against all the rules I had learned for proper ensemble etiquette. Then again, this was a JAZZ concert! (Not a symphony orchestra concert!) The energy from the band and from the audience though was indescribable.

I learned a lot just through observing my Associate conduct the Jazz Band. I am now aware of what I need to do to improve my jazz conducting skills -- now I just need a venue to practice!