Robotic conductor

It seems that technology now makes it possible for a robot to conduct an orchestra:

Robot Asimo makes debut with Detroit Sym
In today’s (5/14) Detroit Free Press, Mark Stryker writes, "Asimo, Honda’s humanoid robot, made its conducting debut Tuesday at Orchestra Hall, leading the Detroit Symphony Orchestra in ‘The Impossible Dream’ of Broadway fame. Let’s say right away that the display was a technological marvel and as cool as all get-out. But it was conducting in only the most limited definition. … It lifted its arms and gave the downbeat, conducting waltz time with fluid, lifelike gestures. It deliberately slowed down for the big finish, shifting into 6/8 time and ending with a dramatic held note. … How did Asimo do it? Honda filmed DSO education director Charles Burke conducting the piece and programmed Asimo to copy his movements. Of course, true conducting is more than arm-waving. It’s shaping musical expression and communicating ideas. Asimo can’t think or react; it does only what it’s been programmed to do.” DSO Music Director-Designate Leonard Slatkin, who was in attendance, kidded the robot: “I’ll believe it when you conduct Mahler 7.”

I think this is an exciting development. Orchestras will save as much as $2 million dollars in music director's salaries. Also, orchestra members will be assured that the robot-conductor will not abuse them in rehearsals (unless, of course, conductors are involved in the progamming). I wonder if thge robot-conductors will develop huge egos like their human counterparts?