The conductor is an independent profession, the representative of which must direct the way the orchestra learns and performs music (choral, orchestral, opera, etc.). The profession requires musical talent and special skills.

When did the conductors appear?

Conducting began to be considered an independent profession at the beginning of the 19th century. Although scientists discovered images on the ancient sculptures of Egypt and Assyria, in which a man with a rod in his hand represented. At the same time, he led a team of musicians. And in the theater of Ancient Greece there was a man who directed the choir. At the same time, he had special shoes with iron soles, with the help of which he could beat the rhythm loudly.

Along with this, the method of controlling the choir using gestures was considered widespread here. Later, this method spread throughout Europe in the church sphere. With the help of gestures, the conductor completely controlled the rhythm, pace, changing the contours of the melody and other musical nuances.

Gradually, the development of the orchestral game took place, and the number and polyphony of choirs increased. In this regard, an even more serious approach to the management of musical ensembles was required. So the conductors of that time had an instrument that is considered the forerunner of the modern conductor’s wand, it was called: buttut. With the help of it was possible to beat the beat, although the instrument was quite massive and uncomfortable. The first mention of the trampoline dates back to 1432.

Subsequently, the conductors tried to change the specifics of their work. For example, we used lightweight trampolines, beat the rhythm with a bow for violin, nodded our heads.

In the XVII century, such a concept as the general bass appeared - this is the bass voice in a musical work. Thus, the musician who performed this part had a new responsibility - to lead the entire orchestra. He could use head nods, gestures, and other ways. For example, Johann Sebastian Bach beat the rhythm with his foot and sang a melody.

How did the conductors stand before?

The bass general had an assistant - accompanist. As a rule, the first violinist played this role. Using his instrument, he set the general tone. Stopping the game, the accompanist beat the rhythm with a bow. There could also be several more assistants to the main conductor in the person of a choirmaster or cellist. Over time, they decided to abandon the general bass, and the accompanist became the head of the ensemble.

In the future, the rules will change more than once, until the ensembles begin to perform completely under the guidance of a conductor, standing separately - in front. In 1812, for the first time, Ignaz Franz von Mosel used a modern-style conductor's baton. If before composers performed their works on their own, then gradually they began to perform other people's works. Conducting turned into a separate profession, and its representatives could go on tour with other people's ensembles.

All this time, the conductors observed good manners: they stood with their backs to the ensemble and facing the audience.However, there was no contact with the ensemble, which caused difficulties.

Who was the first of the conductors to stand with his back to the audience and why?

It is not known for certain who was the first to break the rules of decency and turn their backs to the hall. There are several versions - Ludwig van Beethoven, Hector Berlioz, Wilhelm Richard Wagner. It is worth saying that this event has become significant for orchestras and conductors. The ensemble team was able to more closely monitor the work of the conductor and to respond in a timely manner to his actions.

Interesting fact: There is a version that it was Richard Wagner who first turned to the orchestra. This happened during one of the conductor’s performances with the ensemble. At the same time, Wagner’s act provoked the indignation of the audience, a scandal erupted.

It was previously thought that it was indecent to turn your back on the hall. The fact is that at that time performances of ensembles, orchestras were visited only by well-known, respected people. Therefore, the conductor, standing with his back, was considered an unacceptable phenomenon. However, Wagner set an example for the rest of the conductors. Many began to do the same - such a position in relation to musicians provides an opportunity to better manage the game.

The conductor stands with his back to the audience, and his face to the ensemble, since this allows you to more conveniently and better manage the performance of the work. Contact with musicians allows both the conductor and the artists to act more harmoniously. Previously, such conduct by the conductor was considered unacceptable, indecent.According to one version, the German composer and conductor Richard Wagner was the first to turn his back on the audience during a performance.