The Conductor's Legacy

Book excerpt: What would you ask the leading band directors of our time in a one-on-one conversation? Paula A. Crider, a seasoned and distinguished band director in her own right, shares the wealth of knowledge gleaned from her interviews of the extraordinary personalities who have changed the landscape of the wind band world in this remarkable book. With insight and clarity of thought, she asks the probing questions that prompt stories of talent, work, sacrifice, ingenuity, bravery, and determination. These pioneering and innovative conductors share their concept of band sound, views on score marking, advice to music majors and young band directors, thoughts on how to advance the wind band genre, the elements of their musical success, and much more about the art and craft of conducting a band. In calling forth these thoughts, the author inspires these leaders of the wind band profession to remind us all not only of where we have come from, but also provide a stirring handoff to us and to future generations.