Conductors...what's the point of them?

Essential performers of the classical repertoire, or egotistical monsters incapable of making any actual music?
Let's investigate...
If you wish to buy me a coffee, that would be appreciated:
www.buymeacoff...
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Mark Wigglesworth's book "The Silent Musician" is an excellent guide to conducting...www.amazon.co....
And Wagner: www.amazon.co....
The clip of Toscanini going ballistic: • Toscanini and the bass