How to Conduct PRECISION Cutoffs using Hand Gestures (part 2)

May 18, 2025

Have you ever shown a cutoff and been disappointed at the results?

Do you wish your ensemble could be more precise with the end of notes?

Let's talk about creating the most clear and precise cutoffs for those moments we need more accuracy

What Makes a Cutoff "Precise"?

Precision cutoffs depend on three key elements in your conducting gesture:

  1. Timing – the exact moment the sound should stop

  2. Clarity – a distinct, visible motion that’s easy to read

  3. Consistency – using a gesture your ensemble understands and recognizes every time

A good cutoff doesn’t require flair or exaggeration. In fact, the more economical and purposeful your movement, the better your group will respond

In this short video, I’ll show you my go-to method for conducting precise cutoffs using a simple hand gesture that works across different ensembles and levels of experience.

I use these cutoffs when I need the most accuracy possible

👉 Click the image below to watch the video, or click here to watch it now

P.S. For more advanced topics, check out my course The Art of Conducting