Conducting is the key to communicating musical expression to an ensemble. As a conductor, it is my job to show my students how something should sound through my gesture. When conducting a student ensemble it is imperative to be clear so that students are able to understand tempo and beat but while also demonstrating musical expression within the ensemble. Outside of the rehearsal hall, I prepare lessons and rehearsals by practicing my conducting to make sure my musical ideas and gestures are clear and do not get in the way of the performance. A good conductor can elevate the performers to a higher level of technical achievement and musical expression without ever saying a single word.