Conducting Mentorship Program

The Department of Music offers a unique and innovative opportunity for talented young musicians pursuing a career in conducting. The Conducting Mentorship Program, offered for both Choral (CCMP) and Instrumental (ICMP), provides aspiring conductors with substantial podium time leading university ensembles, where they gain practical, real-world experience under faculty mentorship. Students also engage in rewarding experiences such as attending the College Band Directors National Association, the College Orchestra Directors Association, and the American Choral Directors Association conferences, as well as working one-on-one with visiting guest composers such as Rosephanye Powell and Stacey Gibbs.

Daniel Chandler

"Being in ICMP has enhanced my passion and love for music of any kind. The ICMP program has given me first-hand experience with teaching and conducting the UWE and with that experience, I have gained a better understanding of the complexities behind making music. From this, I have also gained a greater respect for educators and professionals who make conducting a career. Conducting, I have learned, is more than the basic movement of your arms when keeping tempo or displaying of a gesture. Conducting, is an attempt to portray and embody music written by a composer, which turns out is an almost impossible task. The ICMP experience helps you breakdown what a composer is trying to say and aids you in illustrating that to an ensemble."

Daniel Chandler ’25

Key Program Features

• Multiple years of conducting and pedagogical training done in close, purposely small groups.
• Immediate work learning how to program W&L concerts and events under the guidance of W&L faculty.
• Immediate leadership positions with the W&L choirs, including assistant conductor and section leader.
• Podium time with the W&L ensembles beginning in the sophomore year, including the chance to conduct advanced works with the W&L Singers, Wind Ensemble, and University Orchestra, both on campus and during national and international tours.
• K-12 Choral and Instrumental Certification, if pursued.

"I have discovered a passion for teaching music in a manner that incorporates and respects our diverse world and its cultures. I am excited to see where that passion leads."

Nat Ledesma ’23

Why Study Conducting at W&L?

• Intensive study of conducting, performance, and pedagogy with dedicated faculty mentors.
• Multiple years of group and individual conducting study.
• Conduct top ensembles in performance and on tour.
• Built-in leadership opportunities including section leader, rehearsal conductor, and assistant conductor.
• K-12 Teaching Certification available, if pursued,
• Competitive program: Only four instrumental and four choral spots available per incoming class ensures extensive podium time.