About Us
Our Story
Today’s young conductor needs to be more versatile, knowledgeable and flexible than ever before.
Inevitably, most conductors are faced with a very steep learning curve when they get their first professional engagements. And while much can be learned on the job, we believe that most of the things you will encounter can be taught in advance. Understanding what they are and how to approach them will make you a more effective, efficient and employable conductor. We’ll give you the experience you need to stand out from the crowd. And we’ll teach you skills you require to succeed as a conductor.
Each course, in collaboration with a leading arts organisation, will focus on a different aspect of conducting – whether it’s recording in the studio, working with young musicians, conducting an opera gala, premiering new works, learning to cover an entire programme on one rehearsal or performing with click track. But at every course we will also be discussing and analysing the many off-podium roles that you will undertake as a multitasking 21st century conductor:
Our team of artistic partners will join us for these discussions, giving you first-hand knowledge of what it is you need to know.
- Liaising with librarians, orchestra managers, promoters and soloists
- Talking to agents, stage management teams, composers and directors
- Planning lighting needs
- Understanding sound design
- Discussing camera positions
- Deciding stage layouts
- Editing video
- Programming, presenting and promoting concerts
- Building your social media
- Designing and giving pre-concert talks
- Application and interview preparation
Why And Other Duties? It’s a line you’ll often encounter on many contracts and it means different things to different organisations. We’re here to help you navigate your And Other Duties.
Course Directors
With a career spanning both sides of the Atlantic, Karen Ní Bhroin has established herself as one of Ireland’s foremost and most dynamic conductors. Highly regarded for her authoritative interpretations and engaging presence on the podium, her 2026–27 season features major debuts and high-profile returns. Highlights include her French debut leading the Orchestre National des Pays de la Loire across performances in November and March, and conducts the world premiere of a major new orchestral commission based on the Irish legend The Magical Harp of the Dagda, with performances in Dublin with the National Symphony Orchestra and in Munich with the Munich Radio Orchestra. She also makes her debut with the Royal Scottish National Orchestra (RSNO), gives a broadcast performance with the Ulster Orchestra, and a return to the London Symphony Orchestra (LSO).
Equally dedicated to pedagogy and institutional leadership, Ní Bhroin served as Female Artist in Residence (FAiR) at the Mozarteum University Salzburg. The post was extended and she became Senior Lecturer in Conducting, which continues this season. As an educational innovator, she is the creator of the acclaimed podcast And Other Duties: The Life of the Assistant Conductor and the founder of And Other Duties Conducting Courses. Driven by a mission to address gaps in traditional musical education, her masterclasses in Dublin, Manchester, New York, North Macedonia, and the Netherlands foster transparent communication and teach vital, real-world podium skills.
Timothy Redmond has over 25 years’ experience working at the very highest international level. A regular guest conductor with the London Symphony Orchestra and with orchestras across Europe, he has held music director positions in the US and UK and has conducted opera at Covent Garden, Bregenz, the Mariinsky and the Met.
His work as an educator embraces all aspects of the profession. As Professor of Conducting at the Guildhall School, visiting tutor at the Royal Academy of Music and guest tutor internationally he has helped hundreds of young musicians develop their skills on the podium; as co-founder (with his brother Tom) of the Royal Albert Hall’s My Great Orchestral Adventure™ series, he introduces thousands of children every year to their first orchestral experience; and as Principal Conductor of Know The Score® (Royal Philharmonic Orchestra), he works with global business leaders to explore the power of music in leadership.
Our Team
Website Manager
Administrator
Our Partners
Meet our team of experts who will offer first hand experience, knowledge and support throughout our courses.
Concert Pianist and Entrepreneur
Presenter, Animateur, Horn player, Joint Principal at Chetham’s School of Music
Co-Director of FAMES & Producer
Co-Director and Manager of FAMES
Learning and Digital Manager, BBC Philharmonic