The Unseen Rites of the Orchestra: Understanding the Handshake with the Concertmaster

Have you ever noticed the intricate rituals that make up the opening and closing of a symphony concert? One of these fascinating customs involves the conductor's handshake with the concertmaster. This gesture is more than just a polite nod of gratitude; it carries deep significance within the orchestra and reflects the hierarchical structure of musical performance.

Unveiling the Significance of the Handshake

According to UK orchestras, the concertmaster, often called the 'leader', serves as the principal violinist and the orchestra's unofficial leader. During the initial handshake at the beginning of a concert, the conductor extends a hand in gratitude towards the concertmaster. Interestingly, this handshake isn't just a simple "thank you." Instead, it symbolizes a form of communal acknowledgment where the conductor articulates his appreciation to the entire orchestra through the concertmaster. It is a nuanced and traditional form of communication: a gesture that thanks the musicians for their preparation, commitment, and readiness to start the performance.

Leadership and Authority: The Concertmaster's Role

A key aspect of the concertmaster's duties involves leadership and authority within the orchestra. The concertmaster leads by example and is integral to the coordination of the ensemble. One of these unique leadership roles involves coordinating the standing ovation at the end of the concert. When the conductor waves to the orchestra, it might seem nonsensical for each musician to choose when and how to stand up individually. This is precisely why orchestras have a protocol: regardless of the conductor’s actions, no member will stand until the concertmaster does so first. That moment when the concertmaster rises, and the orchestra follows, underscores the concertmaster's pivotal role in guiding the ensemble's conduct and interaction with the audience. It speaks to the concertmaster's established status and his authority within the orchestra.

Respect and Protocol: From Beginning to End

The handshake at the beginning of the concert is a show of mutual respect and partnership between the conductor and the concertmaster. However, this protocol of hierarchy extends to the conclusion of the concert as well. In many cases, even experienced and permanent conductors will perform the handshake with the concertmaster at the end of a performance. This final act of gratitude serves to thank the orchestra for their exceptional performance and acknowledges the collective effort and dedication that went into the concert. It signifies that the conductor respects and values the musicians' work, just as the opening handshake did.

Guest Conductors and Their Handshakes

In the case of guest conductors, the initial handshake is often a welcoming gesture. A conductor who has not worked with an orchestra before might feel the need to show gratitude for the orchestra's warm reception and willingness to perform. This handshake is a personal and expressive acknowledgment of the positive atmosphere and the orchestra's warmth in welcoming a new conductor. In contrast, a resident or permanent conductor usually avoids this gesture, as it may appear unnecessary after a period of working together and mutual understanding.

Conversely, at the end of a concert with a guest conductor, many conductors, regardless of their length of time with the orchestra, will shake the concertmaster's hand. This final handshake is not just a nod of thanks; it is a symbolic conclusion to the concert. It acknowledges the musicians' efforts and the successful performance, reinforcing the relationship and mutual respect between the conductor and the orchestra.

Thus, the handshake with the concertmaster is more than a simple gesture; it encapsulates the intricate layers of leadership, protocol, and mutual respect within the world of classical music.

Keywords: conductor, concertmaster, orchestra