Do you know why conductors live so long? Because we…

I played with the best conductors of the world.

— Mstislav Rostropovich

Composers are not all good conductors.

— Anton Seidl

I have a big problem with conductors who gesture a lot.

— James Levine

Conductors' careers are made for the most part with 'Romantic' music. 'Classic' music eliminates the conductor; we do not remember him in it.

— Igor Stravinsky

It is becoming increasingly difficult to obtain the services of first-class conductors. They are sick and tired of dealing with singers, as I am.

— Rudolf Bing

The composers could no longer direct all performances in person, and so the responsibility of interpreting their works in the spirit in which they…

— Anton Seidl

Drummers are conductors - we set the pace for the music - so if you're not relaxed and feeling right, the whole thing goes…

— Steven Adler

Conductors do not know how the oboe does its work, but they know what the oboe should contribute.

— Peter Drucker

There are two types of conductors. One is the good conductor who can do passionate music but also listen to the singers and do…

— Anna Netrebko

When I am with composers, I say I am a conductor. When I am with conductors, I say I am a composer.

— Leonard Bernstein

I was different from most young conductors today.

— Kurt Masur

Directors have a tendency to use their hands like orchestra conductors. They don't realize that the actor is looking at their faces, anyway.

— Alan J. Pakula

Young conductors who are confident enough, they very often have success.

— Kurt Masur

The great leaders are like the best conductors - they reach beyond the notes to reach the magic in the players..

— Anonymous

Many, many years ago, I was one of the few conductors who talked to the audience and now a lot of classical conductors have…

— Marvin Hamlisch