The metronome is the essential instrument for determining the correct tempo for many pieces of music. Electronic metronomes are now available in very small sizes.
The electronic tuner is vital for teaching music. Some electronic tuners make an audible tone for instrument tuning. For a higher price, a combination metronome/tuner can be purchased.
For conductors, the baton is a valuable labor-saving device, allowing the wrist to do most of the work of beating time, instead of the whole arm and shoulder.
A great deal of the modern teacher/conductor's work is done on a computer. A laptop computer is suggested, since this makes it easy to bring work home at night.
Computer music software is essential today for those writing arrangements and compositions for educational purposes. Some well-known software packages, such as Finale and Sibelius, are quite costly and require a long learning process for use. However, basic music writing software can be obtained for under $40. Noteworthy Composer is one such product.
No tool is more valuable throughout the career of a music teacher and conductor than a large and diverse collection of musical scores and recordings.