Putting on a Show: Musical Director
WHAT IS A MUSIC DIRECTOR - AN MD's VIEW
To prepare for the production by moving Producers and Directors in the right 'musical' direction, particularly with:
- Helping with casting trying to select the right roles for those who can sing, and for those who can't!
- Choosing Music that is relevant to the context within the show.
For a Panto this starts in August, and we have many meetings over several weeks in which the MD tries to influence the Director(s) with their choices - not always seeing 'eye to eye'. Eventually a compromise between the 'dramatic' and 'musical' needs of a show is thrashed out.
Once we have cast, the rehearsal period is one of intense multi-tasking. The MD not only performs the obvious task of directing the orchestra and performers musically, he/she also has to ensure that performers are correctly positioned on stage and that the sound and lighting fits in with the music. As if this weren't enough, he/she often has to stand in for Directors during rehearsals.
What personal skills does the MD need to be able to do this daunting job? To be able to read and put their own interpretation to pieces of music. To possess a good sense of humour. To have reasonable communication skills. Perhaps most of all he/she must not be easily bullied!
What personal skills does the MD need to be able to do this daunting job? To be able to read and put their own interpretation to pieces of music. To possess a good sense of humour. To have reasonable communication skills. Perhaps most of all he/she must not be easily bullied!