LogFAQs > #970320745

The conductor ensures all the performers are playing at the proper cadence. Orchestras are so large each individual musician has a good chance of drifting off tempo, which even if slight will affect the overall sound especially if several of them do this. The conductor provides every single person in the orchestra with a constant source of direction, as long as everyone pays attention and follows the tempo he sets, the work will be performed correctly -- assuming he or she is a good conductor, which is why a select few conductors have been revered over the years. You can't just stand up there and wave around a baton. You need to know music intricately.