INTERVIEW WITH DR. ALEXANDER SAIER
Can any child really learn to conduct, or do they need prior musical experience?
Conducting is a natural and instinctive way of expressing oneself, using gestures and facial expressions to communicate. So, yes, any child can do it! Conducting lessons simply refine these skills. Since we offer conducting as an introduction to music education and for beginners of all ages, no prior musical experience is required. In fact, conducting is a great foundation for learning any instrument because it naturally includes essential musical skills, from reading notes to understanding musical structure.
What challenges do young conductors face?
For kids, standing in front of an orchestra and giving instructions—especially to adults—can feel intimidating.
Sometimes, they need a little encouragement and warm, inviting gestures to build confidence. But once they get comfortable, rehearsals become full of energy and excitement, which is something that the orchestra musicians really enjoy too!
What do you love most about working with both professionals and children?
I love how the expression “Kids always tell the truth” proves itself over and over. Children show themselves in such a straightforward and honest way. Sometimes, that actually helps create a beautiful orchestral sound much faster than with some adults!
What should someone bring if they want to try conducting?
All you really need is a love for music, a willingness to work as a team, and a little bit of courage!
What do musicians learn from working with amateur conductors?
Musicians can’t rely on the conductor in the same way they usually do. So, they have to listen even more carefully and work together more precisely. The result? Surprisingly high-quality performances that really bring the music to life!
Who can benefit from a conducting workshop?
Anyone who works with people—especially in sales, customer service, public relations, or marketing. Conducting teaches you how to communicate powerfully and confidently using both words and body language.
When time is money, you need to get your message across quickly, clearly, and with impact. Leading an orchestra is a great way to practice this!
Plus, conducting helps you become aware of little habits and quirks in your body language that you might not even notice. Since the way an orchestra sounds is directly influenced by the conductor’s movements, it’s a great way to refine your presence and communication skills.
That’s why, with the HSO, we offer a space where people can regularly practice conducting with an ensemble.
About
Dr. Alexander Saier
Born in 1977 in Freiburg, Germany, Alexander Saier discovered his love for music early on. He played in the Baden-Württemberg State Youth Jazz Orchestra and later studied percussion at the music academies in Freiburg and Basel.
His career has been all about classical music. Early on, he won the Carl Orff Prize, earned a PhD in music education from Martin Luther University in Halle, and worked for years as a high school music teacher. From 2017 to 2020, he was the director of the Märkisch-Oderland District Music School.
In 2021, his project “Judend Dirigiert” was awarded the Engagement Prize by the Humanism Foundation.