soloist
soloist — noun
- soloistsingular
- soloistsplural
1. A musician who plays alone on stage as the main performer during a particular pi
A musician who plays alone on stage as the main performer during a particular piece or section, with the rest of the ensemble playing a supporting role.
The orchestra's conductor introduced the young soloist before the violin concerto.
definite article + 'soloist' in orchestral context
Sari trained for years to become a concert soloist and now performs with major orchestras.
The jazz soloist took a long improvisation that impressed everyone in the club.
As a soloist, Hugo prefers intimate recital halls over large concert venues.
Takeshi has been the principal soloist for the Tokyo Symphony since 2021.
- lead
less formal; common in pop and rock music contexts
- featured artist
broader term that can apply to guest musicians or non-musical performers
- virtuoso
emphasises exceptional technical skill rather than simply performing alone
- accompanist
a musician who plays a supporting role
- ensemble member
someone who performs as part of a group rather than alone