The Great Conductors

What makes a great conductor, and how did the art of conducting develop?  In this study group, we will consider those questions and more as we learn about some of the great conductors from the early days of western classical music to the present day.  With deep listening and engagement of select orchestral pieces as conducted by some of the greats, we will consider differences in interpretation including dynamics, tempo, orchestral practice, and others. From the past greats of Reiner, Bernstein, and van Karajan, up to the great interpreters of the present day (with a particular emphasis on those who've had a strong relationship with the Chicago Symphony), this study group will delight, inform, and open your ears.  We will view and discuss the documentary The Art of Conducting: The Great Conductors of the Past, which will be supplemented with many other audio and video selections.