kapellmeister
Definition
- Noun:
- A conductor of a musical ensemble: "kapellmeister" refers to a person who directs and leads an orchestra, choir, or other musical group, especially in a formal or court setting. This term historically denoted the music director of a royal or ecclesiastical court in German-speaking Europe, responsible for composing, arranging, and performing music.
Usage Examples
- (The conductor of the ensemble started the performance.)
- (A music director in a historic court setting.)
- (The leader of the choir or ensemble.)
Advanced Usage
"to serve as a kapellmeister": to hold the position of musical director in a specific institution.
- He served as a kapellmeister at the court of the Elector of Cologne. (He held the post of music director there.)
"kapellmeister music": a style of music associated with the formal, courtly compositions typical of such directors.
- The concert featured kapellmeister music from the Baroque period. (Music composed by or typical of court music directors.)
Variants and Related Words
Kapelle (n): a chapel, or a musical group associated with a court or church.
- The court kapelle performed at the royal wedding. (The chapel's musical ensemble.)
Meister (n): a master or expert in a craft or art.
- He was a true meister of the violin. (A master of the instrument.)
Synonyms
- Conductor: a person who directs an orchestra or choir.
- Music director: a person in charge of musical performances and programming.
- Maestro: a distinguished conductor or composer, often used as a title of respect.
Related Idioms
- No direct idioms: "kapellmeister" is a specific historical and professional term, not commonly used in idiomatic expressions. However, it may appear in formal contexts such as:
- The kapellmeister's baton is a symbol of authority in the orchestra. (The conductor's baton represents leadership.)
Phrasal Verbs
- No common phrasal verbs: As a noun, "kapellmeister" does not form phrasal verbs. It is typically used with verbs like "serve as," "appoint," or "conduct."