The power of conducting gestures: enhancing sound quality and vocal health in young singers

While many conducting methods describe beating patterns, there is untapped potential in starting from vocal and breathing techniques. By aligning a conductor’s sound imagination with gestures rooted in vocal production and breath, conductors can inspire richer sound, enhance vocal quality, and bring music to life in dynamic new ways.

This workshop explores how conductors can influence sound quality through their gestures, a topic extensively studied through Irene’s experience as both a professional singer and vocal coach with the Dutch National Youth Choirs. Collaborating with numerous guest conductors, she has observed how effectively gestures can influence singers’ sound, breathing, and even vocal health. By integrating her experience as a singer into her conducting, Irene has transformed her approach to improve overall sound quality and promote healthier singing practices for individual choir members.

In this workshop, Irene will share her insights on vocal technique and developing young vocal talent. Participants will engage in singing and breathing exercises to explore physical sensations in the body, which will then be translated into expressive conducting gestures. This process bridges the gap between vocal artistry and conducting technique, empowering conductors to shape their choirs’ sound and foster vocal well-being.