Beyond the Baton

Raising the Standard of the Wind Band Conductor

Written by the legendary conductor of the New England Conservatory Wind Ensemble, Frank L. Battisti, Beyond the Baton is an indispensable resource for conductors seeking to elevate their artistic and professional practices. The book covers everything from the historical development of the wind band to the intricacies of score study, literature selection, and rehearsal psychology.

Core Pedagogical Themes

• The Conductor as an Educator and Artist: Battisti highlights the dual responsibility of the conductor to act as a rigorous music educator and a visionary artistic leader.
• Vetting and Selecting Quality Repertoire: Comprehensive advice on identifying wind literature of high aesthetic and educational value, encouraging directors to program works that challenge and enrich their students.
• Systematic Score Study and Imagery: Details Battisti’s personal method for marking and analyzing scores, building a deep internal audio picture, and translating structural dynamics into clear physical gestures.
• Ensemble Culture & Artistic Standards: Strategies for establishing high standards of discipline, focus, and musical sensitivity within the ensemble, fostering a lifelong love for artistic performance.