LSAT 1 | Section 3 | Logical Reasoning: Q17

LR Question 17 Explanation

QUESTION TEXT: It is the mark of a superior conductor that he or she has the authority to …

QUESTION TYPE: Necessary Assumption

ARGUMENTS:

• Superior conductors can insist on more rehearsals with top orchestras.
• But they can only do this if they’ve earned respect for their current interpretation.
• Thus, to be a superior conductor, one must be able to earn that respect.

ANALYSIS: This only makes sense if orchestras can actually recognize and appreciate interpretation before the final product is fully realized. Otherwise, how would the conductor earn authority in time to intensify rehearsals?

___________

1. We don’t care whether interpretations vary by orchestra. The argument is about how authority is earned, not whether interpretations change.
2. The argument doesn’t require perfectionism. It only says superior conductors ask for more rehearsals, not that they’re never satisfied.
3. “Always ready” is too absolute. It doesn’t say orchestras will always rehearse more just because the conductor wants it – only if they respect the interpretation.
4. CORRECT. It assumes that top orchestras can recognize the value of a conductor’s interpretation early enough to grant the conductor authority before the performance is fully realized. Otherwise, the conductor wouldn’t be able to earn their respect for the interpretation and ask for more rehearsal.
5. This might be true, but it doesn’t matter to the argument, which is about what happens when a superior conductor leads a top orchestra.