Conducting Masterclass | Gestures and Sound: The Choral Director’s Conveyance

Presented by the University of the Southern Caribbean in conjunction with the Jason Max Ferdinand Singers

May 7–9, 2025 | USC Main Campus | TTD$150.00 | Open to All Music Enthusiasts

“Do my gestures match the sound in my head?”
“What sound do I want emanating from my ensemble?”

These are the guiding questions behind a transformative three-day masterclass that promises to redefine your approach to choral conducting.

Join Dr. Jason Max Ferdinand—internationally renowned conductor, educator, and a proud son of Trinidad and Tobago—as he takes participants on an in-depth exploration of the powerful relationship between gesture and sound in the choral arts.

Whether you’re a seasoned choral director, a music educator, a student of conducting, or simply passionate about the choral experience, this masterclass is designed to revolutionize your practice and perspective.

About the Experience

“Quite honestly, I wish that this concept was introduced to me years ago,” says Dr. Ferdinand. “In my travels, I’ve observed how often conductors speak one thing, but gesture another. The lifelong work of the conductor is to build a cohesive vocabulary of gestures that match sounds.”

Through this immersive experience, you’ll begin to unlock that vocabulary.

Who Should Attend?

Choral Directors • Music Educators • Conducting Students • Music Auditors • Vocal Ensemble Leaders • Anyone Curious About the Art of Conducting

Daily Schedule - "Gestures and Sound" Conducting Masterclass

May 7–9, 2025

Each day of the Conducting Masterclass is thoughtfully structured to provide a progressive and immersive experience. While each day follows the same session format, different content will be covered daily, with each session building on the knowledge and skills developed the day before.

Day One: Wednesday, May 7
5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Day One serves as an introductory session and will feature elements from all three components of the masterclass: a conversation with Dr. Jason Max Ferdinand, a brief demonstration, and initial participant engagement. This session is designed to set the tone for the experience and give participants a preview of what to expect in the following two days.

Day Two & Day Three: Thursday & Friday, May 8–9
Each of these days will be divided into three core sessions:

Session One: Conversation with the Conductor
10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Begin your day with an engaging conversation led by Dr. Ferdinand. This session offers deep insights into his philosophy, technique, and experiences as a conductor. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions and explore the art and science of conducting through meaningful dialogue.

Session Two: Demonstration with the Conductor
2:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Watch theory come to life as Dr. Ferdinand conducts live demonstrations using an ensemble composed of the masterclass attendees. This session bridges knowledge and application, giving participants a chance to observe and reflect on real-time conducting strategies and rehearsal techniques.

Session Three: Participant Practice Session
6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Each attendee will step onto the podium during this practice session, conducting a variety of chorales who will be present each evening. This is a prime opportunity to apply what you've learned, receive direct feedback, and grow in a supportive, professional environment.

Register for "Gestures and Sound" Conducting Masterclass

Complete Registration Form

Queries? Email us at president@usc.edu.tt for assistance.

Pay Registration Fee

The registration fee for the "Gestures and Sound" Conducting Masterclass is TTD $150.00.

Please make payment using one of the available methods listed below.

After payment, kindly email a copy of your receipt to president@usc.edu.tt no later than 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, May 7, 2025.