The Rice University Neologisms Database

The act of conducting in a formal manner similar to that of the conductor Leopold Stokowski. Intended Meaning: the act of conducting in a formal manner similar to that of the conductor Leopold Stokowski Analysis: There is a cultural connection of the name Leopold with formal conducting. (Someone told me it was featured in Bugs Bunny cartoons.) Thus, to do a Leopold is to behave as Leopold would. Note: I believe the conductor being referenced is Leopold Stokowski, but I am a little behind in my musical knowledge. In any case, the cultural allusion remains. Possible Reason Used: Because the band director is usually trying to be fun rather than serious when he conducts, he decided to allude to the famous conductor at times when he was going for a more formal image. (He even wore white gloves for the audience.)