Maelstrom

i don't know if this is neccesarily off topic, but... when you have a large ensemble, someone to look to for tempo, dynamics, cues, etc... is almost always necessary. They also tie the ensemble together most of the time. I don't know why, but the techniques of conductors seems to bring out different sounds in large ensembles. So yeah, I'm pretty sure conductors are a good thing. I guess clarity of intention should be the most vital skill of a conductor. Good luck in lessons!