In addition, across most subjects, there tended to be a large increase in the GSR signal before the beginning of each piece. It is possible that this is this evidence of motion artifact from the use of the left arm, but it is also possible that it could indicate a significant trend in skin conductance changes. For example, subject P1’s GSR baseline increased markedly right before beginning a very expressive segment with the orchestra; his signal level remained high throughout the segment. Then, after stopping the orchestra, his GSR signal decreased back to earlier levels. In Figure 39, below, P1 signals the orchestra to start playing at sample 1700, and signals it to stop at approximately sample 5000:
I think that this strong trend in the GSR signals across our subjects indicates a significant event in conducting; the siezing of control and the projection of emotional strength and energy. In raising the arms to a ‘ready’ position, breathing in deeply, and the heightening of the neural arousal level (reflected in the GSR), the conductor asserts authority and becomes the focus of the attention. Another interpretation is that the conductor gives all of his emotional energy over to the players, and in return the players give their full attention; it is a moment of transaction between the leader and the troops, after which they engage in a mutual mission.