Conducting Quote by Leon Fleisher
““The first problem I had with conducting was coming out on stage and turning my back on the audience. It was an utterly foreign sensation. I always felt as if my rear end were hanging out. That particular portion of my anatomy suddenly seemed enormous, living a life of its own, engaged in its own relationship with the public behind my back. For the first couple of years I conducted, I sat on a chair in front of the orchestra, to help quell that particular discomfort.””
About This Quote
Conducting onstage felt alien; his body’s discomfort highlighted vulnerability and the need to adapt.
In simple terms: Stage discomfort revealed vulnerability and adaptation.
Key Takeaway
Adapt to bodily discomfort.
Themes
performance anxiety
vulnerability
adaptation
body awareness
music
Mood
vulnerable
determined
introspective
Type
Conducting:1
Living a life:0
Rear-end:0
Conducting Coming:0
Problem Conducting:0
Chair Orchestra:0
Orchestra Help:0
When to use this quote
- concerts
- rehearsals
- public speaking
Key Concepts
stage presence
physical discomfort
psychological coping
musical leadership
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you manage physical discomfort?
- What can reduce stage anxiety?
A Different Perspective
May not apply to non‑performers.
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