Over all, one key component of being proactive in rehearsing any instrumental ensemble is performing a detailed score study and analysis. However, most people do not realize how multi-faceted this process really is, and how it has to be in order to be most effective.
Beyond learning the technical aspects of notes and rhythms, a "macro" analysis must first me done where the conductor examines the overall architecture of the piece, such as form and movements, tonal centers and key areas, transitions, meters, and tempo changes. This also includes textures, melody and accompaniment, counterpoint, orchestrations, solos - the overall melodic, harmonic, rhythmic and formal picture of the piece.
On the next level, or 'micro' analysis, the conductor analyzes the piece in far greater detail, deconstructing the piece on every level to form a complete recording in one's head. We examine the harmony and chords and crystallize the conception of the orchestration, while trying to interpret the composer's intent. Studying music theory and learning how to perform a harmonic analysis has been extremely helpful in this process for me.
Finally, in the third or 'macro-redux' phase, we go back and make the important musical decisions that give the piece musical effect. I think it is important to realize that there is usually no right or wrong answer when interpreting a piece of music, but at the same time, it is the responsibility of the conductor to make consistent decisions that are in the best interest of the music as intended by the composer.
Additionally, regarding the comment within the text that recordings are a 'crutch' that "restrict the development of the mind's ear", I think they can be really effective if used properly. An initial listening to the piece can be highly effective in determining much of the "macro" analysis - something we often do in my form and analysis class. However, more of the minute musical details are probably best left to us before we listen to one recording multiples times and are biased by that conductor's interpretation.
I believe recordings are useful - after all music is an aural art. The "jazzers" are always listening to develop their vocabulary. Why shouldn't we do this too? Of course you also want to develop the ability to hear/audiate the score, but that does not negate the advantages of recordings.
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