Student Conductor Nick Leonard debuts at spring concert

This spring 21-year-old Nick Leonard was selected as the LBCC Concert Choir student conductor, making his conducting debut Thursday, June 4.

Leonard’s passion for music began at age 10 when his music teacher taught him that there’s more beauty in making music than he originally thought.

“She showed me that I could do bigger and better things,” he said.

That little spark sent Leonard into a musical explosion.

Throughout middle and high school years, Leonard played the clarinet, bass clarinet, alto saxophone, baritone saxophone, as well as percussion instruments. It wasn’t until two years ago, when he started his rehearsal and performance special studies at LBCC, that he got into the technical side of music.

According to James Reddan, professor of music and director of choral activities, becoming a student conductor is no easy feat. It’s competitive, and only a few are chosen once a year.

“They write a proposal to be a student conductor and they are selected based on their technical skill and their proposal,” said Reddan.

The real challenge comes upon acceptance.

“Being a student conductor is like on-the-job training. You learn the skills first and then you are put to the test.” said Reddan.

According to Reddan, it’s all about trial and error.

“Nick is handling everything and growing as a musician, leader, and teacher through this process. It is a wonderful experience for me helping the conductors grow.”

Reddan added that being a student conductor is a great opportunity for students to expand their knowledge of music and of people.

Choir students such as music major McKayla Ricks, 20, mentioned that watching Leonard’s confidence and poise in front of the class, she’d never know that it’s his first time in a teaching position.

“Most people think that standing in front of a crowd is something stressful, but for me it’s almost like a comfortable place…as long as I know what I’m doing,” said Leonard. “You’ve just got to put on your director’s face and know that you actually have a lot more control than you think.”

The choir students have enjoyed having Leonard in front of the class this term.

"Having a student conductor is pretty cool because it’s a change from what we usually do,” said music major Leland Holden.

Ricks and Holden agreed that the students like Leonard’s song choice, “Deep River,” composed by Matthew Culloton. Ricks likes the African-American spiritual so much she is going to try to learn it on her violin.

“Nick is learning a lot and growing a lot through this process. He is sure to give a stellar job at the spring concert,” said Reddan.

At a glance:

• Nick Leonard is the 2015 student conductor.
• He will be debuting Thursday, June 4th at LBCC's Singing From the Heart
• Nick is 21years old and is majoring in music. 
• Outside of school, Nick likes playing music with friends.

  Tickets are $10 online or at the door.