Being an effective and engaging leader of a band, orchestra, or choir involves both the application of appropriate, purposeful techniques and successful communication on a variety of levels. Tackling problems regarding tone, dynamics, and difficult passages requires a good "game plan" that one can convey clearly to the group, so that optimal result may be achieved. In this article, four music educators talk about what they do to ensure that their members can focus appropriately on the task at hand and be the best ensemble players they can be.