What does a musical conductor really show by his /her arm and hand movements?

Answer 1

They are showing the tempo of the song also upbeats and down beats, plus leading in solos or specified parts. There are classes on how to do it the "correct" way.

Answer 2

We show a lot more than that, its about tempo, yes, but when we conduct, we can indicate, how loud or soft we want a particular part sung, or when to breathe, and when to carry on through a line.

We also indicate volume, and when people are to start and stop singing. It is a lot harder than people think

Answer 3

tempo