What do orchestral conductors do? Are they wizards with magic wands or overpaid time-keepers? How can we know if they are good, bad or indifferent? What musical techniques must they master? Is success down to personality or skill? In a three-part exploration of the maestro's craft, Kenneth Woods, principal guest conductor of the Stratford-based Orchestra of the Swan and founder of the Rose City International Conductor's Workshop in the USA, discusses the work of some of the great conductors of the past, then puts a group of young conductors through their paces in a masterclass. Afterwards, there will be a chance for several members of the audience to try conducting for themselves. The event will end with a performance of several movements from Brahms' delightfully lyrical first Serenade. This will be recorded live for a commercial CD, offering a fascinating opportunity for the public to glimpse behind the scenes of the professional musical world.