How to prepare your score for your first pit rehearsal

Here are 4 important things to write in your piano-conductor score before your first pit rehearsal, so that your musicians don't end up playing a guessing game.

1. How many beats to count off at the top of a piece: Elements to factor into your decision are the speed of the piece, and the amount of time you have between the previous piece and the piece you're on. Consistency from piece to piece is best.
   
   
2. Change of patterns: Indicate any section where you switch your conducting from 1 to 2 or vice versa, particularly if that change is not written in the score. Plan any actual changes of meters carefully too.
   
   
3. Hand cues:  When a passage needs a hand cue for clarity, make sure to mark the notes you won't play.
   
   Plan ahead of time where you want the musicians to sit, so that you know which hand to cue with for each section.
   
   
4. Instrumental parts that need a cue: Cue a section when they first start playing, when they've had a long rest, and before an important solo.
   
   Not all cues are marked in the conductor's score. Make sure to listen through the show, and compare each part with your own to add any important cues you're missing in your score. 

The more prepared you are, the easier the rehearsal will be. 



http://seattleopera.blogspot.com/2010_08_01_archive.html