baton
music
Quick Summary
A baton is a slender rod used by a conductor to direct a band or orchestra. The conductor uses stylized arm and hand movements, often emphasizing the beat with the baton, to guide the musicians' rhythm and interpretation. While some conductors use a baton, others prefer to use both hands for more expressive direction. The baton has been used for centuries, with early forms involving a roll of paper or a lengthy pole to maintain rhythm.12
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