How to conduct a fermata over a rest?

Question

I'm currently learning how to conduct Berlioz's Symphonie Fantastique - Reveries and Passions. In the first few bars there are fermatas over a few rests and I know I'm supposed to prolong and hold the rest, but what do with my hand? Am I supposed to treat it as I do with notes that have fermata? Or do something else?

Laurence Payne · Answer

Wrap up the previous note.  Do nothing for a suitable amount of time (but don't drop your hands. Keep the orchestra's attention).  Give an upbeat into the continuation.

How to conduct a fermata over a rest?

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