instrumentalist

[ in-struh-men-tl-ist ]

noun

1. a person who plays a musical instrument.
2. an advocate of instrumentalism.

adjective

1. of, relating to, or advocating instrumentalism.

instrumentalist

/ ˌɪnstrəˈmɛntəlɪst /

noun

1. a person who plays a musical instrument
2. philosophy a person who believes in the doctrines of instrumentalism

adjective

1. of or relating to instrumentalism

Word History and Origins

Origin of instrumentalist¹

First recorded in 1815–25; instrumental + -ist

Example Sentences

But when the composer and instrumentalist Tyshawn Sorey set out to write one for saxophone and orchestra several years ago, he quickly dispensed with convention.

From New York Times

Unlike many instrumentalists, Mr. Eddy said, he never seriously considered expanding his musical résumé to include vocals.

From New York Times

The brain operates like an orchestra, where each instrumentalist has a special role crucial for creating a coherent piece of music.

From Science Daily

Then I orchestrated that translation for the instrumentalists.

From New York Times

Given the gender misbalance in jazz bandleaders — especially instrumentalists — was this purposeful?

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• artist
• composer
• conductor
• entertainer
• performer
• player
• soloist
• virtuoso
• vocalist