This book contains collective insights from some of the most inspirational full orchestra conductors and teachers in the United States. They reveal their ideas on rehearsal preparation and score study, warm-up strategies, favorite repertoire, intonation, balance, blend, expression, recruiting, and building a culture of success in the ensemble. You will surely be inspired by this diverse set of musician-educators as they share their ideas, approaches, and strategies in Rehearsing the Full Orchestra.

It is the artists of the world, the feelers and the thinkers, who will ultimately save us; who can articulate, educate, defy, insist, sing, and shout the big dreams. (Leonard Bernstein)

—Rachel Dirks
    Kanas State University

I prefer to think of myself as a musician who is still learning and trying to do something every time out. (Geddy Lee, RUSH)

—Liza Grossman | Artistic Director + Conductor
    Kaboom Collective Studio Orchestra

Success breeds success.

—Mark Laycock
    Wichita State University

There are two ways to spread light: to be the candle or the mirror that reflects it. (Edith Wharton)

—Felipe Morales-Torres
    Cincinnati Symphony Youth Orchestra/Anderson High School

Leave no stone unturned.

— Daniel Myssyk
    Virginia Commonwealth University/Richmond Symphony

Hard work beats talent. (Tim Notke)

—Soon Hee Newbold
    Composer/Conductor

To play a wrong note is insignificant, to play without passion is inexcusable. (Ludwig van Beethoven)

— Jim Palmer
    Allatoona High School

Be kind, work hard, stay humble. (based on a quote by Brad Meltzer)

— Naima Burrs
    Petersburg Symphony/Virginia State University