<p>There’s a previous discussion on undergrad conducting here <a href=“http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/music-major/401552-undergraduate-orchestral-conducting.html?highlight=conducting[/url]”>http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/music-major/401552-undergraduate-orchestral-conducting.html?highlight=conducting</a></p>
<p>It’s probably a tougher field to break into than trying to win an orchestral chair. Serious preprofessional study can be at the grad level or in the form of a GPD (graduate professional diploma, often AFTER an MM), an AD (artists diploma, in lieu of or in addition to an MM), at one of the few internship/training orchestras, or being taken under the wing of an established conductor. </p>
<p>I would suggest talking to as many current or recent grads of the programs that interest you, and pick their brains as to backgrounds, how they got there, formal/informal training, etc. The schools should be able to provide names of current/former students willing to share their experience with you. Try and establish a dialog as well with a few of the department heads at the schools that you will apply to and get their overviews as well. </p>
<p>You will need all of the skills you mention in your opening post, a tremendous talent and quite a bit of luck, and exposure. There are also a few competitive summer programs/festivals that would enable you to hone experience and develop skills. </p>
<p>Good luck.</p>