what does a conductor do in an orchestra

A conductor in an orchestra primarily interprets the musical score, sets the tempo, and guides the musicians through gestures to ensure a unified performance. They indicate when to start, how fast to play, when to slow down or stop, and shape the overall expression of the music. Beyond keeping time, conductors act as artistic leaders who bring their own interpretation to the piece, working closely with the orchestra in rehearsals to prepare and refine the performance. They communicate mostly non-verbally during concerts, using hand movements, facial expressions, and sometimes a baton to relay nuanced musical directions. The conductor also holds the full score, which helps them oversee the entire ensemble's coordination and balance.