A handbook for assistant orchestra conductors in the United States

Currently, an aspiring assistant conductor is faced with a lack of information regarding the expectations and successful strategies in preparing to take on an assistant conductorship in the United States. A conductor's training in the United States focuses heavily on stick and rehearsal technique, score study, performance practice, and developing a deeper understanding of the administrative and logistical structure of the modern symphony orchestra - as it should be. Speaking as a an aspiring young conductor, I believe that, although these aspects of conducting are crucial for one's success in the field, two important aspects of a conductor's education are often not given an adequate amount of attention in the basic curriculum. These are: 1) Developing a clearer understanding of the official and unofficial functions of an assistant orchestra conductor in the United States; and, 2) Providing a model of the elements of a professional and highly effective press packet including: conducting footage, CV/resume, photographs, website, references and cover letter. The purpose of this project was to collect and present information that may inform an aspiring assistant orchestra conductor regarding the expectations of such a position and strategies to improve one's marketability for such a job in the United States. A handbook for the aspiring conductor was also created.