Definition

Noun: A soloist is a musician who performs a solo, meaning they perform a piece of music or a part of a piece alone, often with accompaniment from an orchestra or other ensemble, to showcase their skill.

Usage

The word soloist is used to identify a performer who takes on a featured, independent role in a musical performance. It is a specific term most commonly used in the context of classical, jazz, and some popular music.

Examples

• The violin soloist received a standing ovation after the concerto.
• She was the featured soloist with the city's symphony orchestra.
• The piece requires a skilled piano soloist.

Advanced Usage

• "to appear as a soloist": To perform in the role of a soloist with a group.
  • The cellist will appear as a soloist with the Berlin Philharmonic next season.

Variants and Related Words

• Solo (noun/verb/adjective): The piece performed alone or the act of performing it.
  • He played a beautiful guitar solo.
• Soloistic (adjective): Having the character or qualities of a solo performance.
  • The composition includes many soloistic passages for the flute.

Synonyms

• Performer: A more general term for someone who gives a public performance.
• Virtuoso: A musician with exceptional technical skill, often a soloist.

Related Phrases

• Featured artist: A term sometimes used similarly, especially in non-classical contexts.
  • The featured artist on the track is a renowned saxophonist.

Noun

1. a musician who performs a solo