bandleader

[ band-lee-der ]

noun

1. the leader of a musical band, especially a dance band.

Word History and Origins

Origin of bandleader¹

First recorded in 1890–95; band ¹ + leader

Example Sentences

He also played with Billie Holiday at 14, and got taken under the wings of bandleader Count Basie and trumpeter Clark Terry.

From BBC

On bad nights for the bandleaders and their players, they caught a little sleep on the bus or in the car, scrunched between sweaty orchestra mates.

From Los Angeles Times

Gordon, a saxophonist, composer and bandleader who has been a mainstay of downtown music for decades, has recorded for several different labels.

From New York Times

Cherry met Coleman around the mid-50s and started working with the bandleader; it was a creative partnership that spanned several albums.

From New York Times

More than 100 high school jazz bands applied for this year’s competition, which celebrates composer, pianist and bandleader Duke Ellington’s 125th birthday.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• composer
• conductor