TC 1-19.51 — The Army Ceremonial Conductor
TC 1-19.51 governs ceremonial conductor practices, stationary movements, conducting techniques, and training in Army Bands.
- Publication number: TC 1-19.51
- Title: THE ARMY CEREMONIAL CONDUCTOR
- Date: 09/01/2022
- Proponent: T2COM
- Status: ACTIVE
View TC 1-19.51 on armypubs.army.mil
TC 1-19.51 covers the ceremonial conductor’s role, baton use, ceremonial actions, conducting fundamentals, and exercises. It requires clear technique, musical knowledge, preparation, and prescribed movement standards.
Applies to: TC 1-19.51 applies to the Active Army, the Army National Guard, the Army National Guard of the United States, and the United States Army Reserve unless otherwise stated.
Topics covered
- Ceremonial conductor selection criteria
- Baton handling
- Stationary ceremonial movements
- Conducting techniques
- Preparatory beats
- Cutoff gestures
- Conducting exercises
Questions and answers
What tempo does TC 1-19.51 prescribe for ceremonial signals?
Signals are performed at a tempo between 114 and 120 beats per minute, with 116 the preferred tempo for most occasions. (paragraph 2-7)
How should the baton be held at the Position of Attention?
In the left hand, hold the baton between thumb and forefinger where the handle meets the shaft. (paragraph 2-8)
What does the ictus do in a conducting pattern?
The ictus is a small flicking of the wrist at the precise point of each beat in a conducting pattern. When conducting, it is vitally important that the ictus be clearly recognizable, as this translates the tempo to the players in the ensemble. (paragraph 4-3)
What does a preparatory beat communicate to an ensemble?
The preparatory beat precedes the first note in a piece of music and communicates the desired tempo, dynamics, and style to the ensemble. (paragraph 4-5)
How should conductors avoid false starts with preparatory beats?
Preparatory beats must be clear to the ensemble to avoid false starts. (paragraph 4-5)