A ‘stand-at-ease’ position for the legs is modified by the right foot being slightly in front of the left, balancing on the heels rather than the toes. (As with all other aspects of technique, a left-handed person will interpret instructions in mirror-fashion.) This provides a central axis movement from left to right in focusing directions on various sections of the orchestra. It would be a dull conductor who makes this into a self-conscious rule, which we are all guilty of breaking by occasional digression from the basic stance. But awareness of the importance of an authoritative demeanour should always inform our movements. This basic stance is important for that reason.