Buckinghamshire
In Michael Rose's beginners day class, students study basic baton skills, such as how to stop, start, pause and change tempo – think of it as learning to drive – as well as gestures in expression and authority. The next class is on 14 September. A weekend workshop to which beginners are welcome will run on 8-9 November.
London
Peter Fender, a former student of Michael Rose and musical director of Philharmonia Britannica orchestra, invites musicians and non-musicians on his foundation course for beginners. The day course involves learning to beat to different time patterns, watching videos of various styles, conducting short pieces to piano, and "explaining what on earth the person waving their arms about is actually doing". The next foundation course is on 12 October.
Manchester
If you're not bold enough for the baton, but would still love to understand what conducting is about, book an observer place at the Royal Northern College of Music's Conducting Weekend and watch students learn from some of the best conductors in the world. If you're a musician, you're invited to bring your instrument and the course director will assess if you're ready to join in with the orchestra during teaching sessions. To find out when the next course is being held and to book your place, contact 0161 907 5334.
Wales
For the more musically advanced, book an observer place at the Aberystwyth MusicFest conducting course this summer (26 July-2 August). As well as observing all lessons and rehearsals, observers can participate in technique classes and discussions, and receive one short lesson on a piano.
