Here is an important addition to the already large catalog of books devoted to conducting. Carl Topilow examines everything you always needed to know about the profession, especially when it comes to finding your career path. With examples from his own life as well as general observations, this is a must-read for conductors in waiting.
— Leonard Slatkin
This book represents Topilow's more than 40 years as a conductor, educator, and music director. It is a compendium of extraordinary worth and bountiful information, packed with practical, focused information and written with clarity and knowledge, for both aspiring conductors and those of us looking for more hints on how to handle certain challenges in the standard classical and pop repertoire. Enjoy!
— Larry Rachleff, Walter Kris Hubert Professor of Orchestral Conducting, Shepherd School of Music, Rice University
A conducting primer of unprecedented breadth, this book draws from maestro Carl Topilow’s own extraordinary life in music with honesty and humor, charting a course for a profession in conducting for the young musician. The book expresses both the practical and the profound in a well-organized text glowing with Topilow's positive energy and great humanity.
— JoAnn Falletta, music director, Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra
Carl Topilow takes us behind the scenes with sage advice for conductors of all ages in this comprehensive guide. Highlighted by engaging stories drawn from his decades of experience conducting concerts all over the world, this book is a must read for all aspiring conductors!
— Diane Wittry, author, Beyond the Baton and Baton Basics, music director & conductor, Allentown Symphony
Carl Topilow’s book has everything for an aspiring conductor. His experience is remarkable and his ability to express so many aspects of the conducting world is clear and complete. This book is a must-read for anyone thinking of pursuing a career in conducting or those who are curious of what a conductor does.
— Gerard Schwarz, music director laureate, Seattle Symphony Orchestra
Carl Topilow’s candid, earnest, and thorough description of the business of conducting answers most of the practical and conceptual questions that a conducting student or a young conductor might have. This book promises to be a formidable teaching tool for conducting programs.
— Miguel Harth-Bedoya, music director laureate, Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra
This book is filled with great advice for aspiring conductors in different stages of their careers. Carl Topilow shares his infinite knowledge acquired through his stellar experiences as professional conductor and pedagogue.
— Giancarlo Guerrero, music director, Nashville Symphony, GRAMMY Award-winning conductor
Carl Topilow offers a thoughtful insight into the unique journey of a conductor, drawing on decades of personal experiences and relevant anecdotes. This handbook provides a comprehensive guide full of practical information that covers all the basics in detail and more—a useful tool for anyone interested in pursuing a career in conducting!
— Mei-Ann Chen, music director, Chicago Sinfonietta; principal guest conductor, Recreation Grosses Orchester Graz at Styriarte; artistic partner, River Oaks Chamber Orchestra (ROCO); artistic director & conductor, National Taiwan Symphony
Maestro Topilow deserves a standing ovation for his handbook for orchestral conductors – not just for the excellent breadth and value conveyed, but for his personal generosity. His contributions add to his legacy while helping the next generation of orchestral conductors create their own.
— Music Reference Services Quarterly