I have a 45 yr old black pine in my front yard approx. 10-12 ft high, that I have absolutely no idea of how to prune or how to contain new growth. My father always took care of this every year, sadly he passed away last year and now that spring is here, I have no clue as to what to do.

I've noticed now that there are 'candles' sprouting. What do I do with these? I've read that if you pinch them back halfway, it will promote denser growth, yet I'd like to keep the tree the way it is. Do I cut off the whole candle? is this bad for the tree to cut off all the new growth?

I've tried to research and find some answers online and at the library, and have not really found anything on caring for a mature black pine. I'm definitely not garden savvy, so any help would be greatly appreciated!!