Conducting a Choir: A Guide for Amateurs

by Imogen Holst

Imogen Holst (1907-1984), the daughter of the composer Gustav Holst, was a much-loved source of inspiration for the many musicians and students who encountered her over the years at the Dartington Summer School of Music and the Aldeburgh Festival. In this book, originally published in 1973, she sets out clearly and concisely--and often amusingly--a wealth of practical information that will be of particular interest to the amateur conductor. She gives precise and detailed advice on the technique of conducting, how to form and train a choir, the presentation and rehearsal of music, and how to approach public performances and competitions. Her final chapter offers suggestions for the actual rehearsal of choruses from Purcell's Dido & Aeneas , Handel's l'Allegro , and Britten's Rejoice in the Lamb .

Genres: Music

174 pages, Paperback

First published May 17, 1973

About the author

Imogen Clare Holst CBE (12 April 1907 – 9 March 1984) was a British composer, arranger, conductor, teacher, musicologist and festival administrator; and the only child of the composer Gustav Holst.

She is particularly known for her educational work at Dartington Hall in the 1940s, and for her 20 years as joint artistic director of the Aldeburgh Festival.

In addition to composing music, she wrote composer biographies, much educational material and several books on the life and works of her father.