bandleader

IPA/ˈbændliːdə(r)/
KK[bˈændlidɚ]IPA/ˈbændliːdər/

bandleader — noun

  • bandleadersingular
  • bandleadersplural

1. the person who directs a band during a performance and often performs with the g

1.nounB2
Definition

the person who directs a band during a performance and often performs with the group as well

Example

At the wedding, Renata watched the bandleader count in the first song.

role: count in the first song

The bandleader raised his trumpet and signaled the dancers to move closer.

bandleader also performs as a player

Common collocations
  • jazz bandleader
  • wedding bandleader
  • famous bandleader
  • big-band bandleader
  • touring bandleader
Synonyms
  • conductor

    often directs from the front and may not play an instrument; especially common with orchestras

  • music director

    broader title that can include planning songs, arrangements, and rehearsals

  • bandmaster

    more formal and especially used for military or brass bands

Antonyms

Grammar Patterns

jazz/wedding/big-band + bandleader

bandleader of + group

Usage Note

Often used for jazz, dance, or wedding bands, especially when the leader sings or plays with the group. For a large classical orchestra, English more often uses conductor.

Common Mistakes

The conductor of the jazz trio started to sing into the microphone.
The bandleader of the jazz trio started to sing into the microphone.
'bandleader' fits smaller performing groups where the leader also performs; 'conductor' sounds more orchestral.
He is the leader band tonight.
He is the bandleader tonight.
English uses the compound noun 'bandleader', not 'leader band'.

Word family

Synonym discussion

Sense: noun/1

Bandleader usually refers to the person who leads a smaller performing group, especially a jazz, dance, or wedding band, and that person often sings or plays an instrument at the same time. Conductor is broader, but it is especially common when someone stands in front of an orchestra or choir and directs without joining in as a player. Music director is a wider job title and can include choosing songs, arranging music, and planning rehearsals. Bandmaster is more formal and is often used for military or brass bands. A band member belongs to the group but does not guide the performance. For example, a wedding bandleader may sing and count the group in, while an orchestra conductor usually works with a baton.

conductor ↗music director ↗bandmasterband member

Common collocations

Nouns

Phrases

  • jazz bandleader
  • wedding bandleader
  • famous bandleader
  • bandleader of the group

Prepositions

Etymology

Old FrenchOld EnglishEnglish

Bandleader is a modern English compound built from band and leader. Band came into English through Old French for a group of people, while leader grew from the Old English verb lǣdan, meaning to guide or take the way. Put together, the word literally means the person who guides the band.