rehearsal
techniquesrih-HER-sul
A practice session in which musicians prepare a piece for performance.
A rehearsal is the process by which musicians learn, polish, and coordinate their performance of a musical work before presenting it to an audience. Orchestral rehearsals are led by a conductor who shapes the ensemble's interpretation of tempo, dynamics, balance, and articulation. Chamber music rehearsals involve collaborative discussion among the players. Band rehearsals in popular music serve to tighten arrangements, work out transitions, and build the setlist for a concert. Sectional rehearsals focus on one group of instruments, such as the brass or strings section. A dress rehearsal is the final run-through before performance, conducted under concert conditions. Efficient rehearsal technique — knowing what to fix and how to fix it quickly — is a critical skill for both conductors and ensemble musicians.