Bandmaster

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A person who leads a group of musicians in performance while overseeing the overall interpretation and execution of the musical piece
2. An individual tasked with coordinating the artistic direction of a musical ensemble, managing its sound and dynamics during rehearsals and live shows
3. A leader responsible for guiding musicians while managing the interpretation and energy of their performances

Etymology: "Bandmaster" is a plain compound: "band" plus "master." The "band" here is the older sense of a group of musicians playing together, which in English goes back to the idea of a company of people bound together for a common purpose, while "master" carries its familiar sense of one who leads, commands or holds authority over others. Put together, the word names the person who leads a musical ensemble. Its meaning is tied closely to the military. The bandmaster is traditionally the officer or musician responsible for directing a regimental band, training its players and conducting them on parade and in performance. The word therefore describes a role within an organized military unit rather than a general figure of musical leadership, which is why the phrase "military band leader" is a fair paraphrase of its sense.

Synonyms: conductor, leader, director, maestro, orchestrator

Antonyms: follower, subordinate, assistant, understudy, member