chorusmaster: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Low (C2)Formal / Technical (Musical)
Quick answer
What does “chorusmaster” mean?
The conductor of a choir or chorus, especially one who prepares and leads the chorus in an opera company or large choral society.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The conductor of a choir or chorus, especially one who prepares and leads the chorus in an opera company or large choral society.
An individual responsible for training, rehearsing, and directing a chorus, ensuring vocal precision, blend, and musical interpretation in performances. In some contexts, may also oversee chorus auditions and repertoire selection.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Usage is largely identical. The term is more commonly encountered in professional opera and large choral institutions in both regions.
Connotations
Professional, specialised, and often associated with the hierarchical structure of an opera house or professional symphony chorus.
Frequency
Rare in everyday conversation; its use is confined to professional musical contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “chorusmaster” in a Sentence
The chorusmaster rehearsed [OBJECT: the chorus] for [GOAL: the premiere].[AGENT: She] served as chorusmaster for [ORGANIZATION: the National Opera].Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “chorusmaster” in a Sentence
noun
British English
- The chorusmaster worked tirelessly to perfect the ensemble's diction.
- Promotion from chorister to chorusmaster is a recognised career path.
American English
- The chorusmaster called for another run-through of the final movement.
- His contract as chorusmaster was renewed for three seasons.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not applicable.
Academic
Used in musicology, performance studies, and biographies of musicians.
Everyday
Virtually never used in casual conversation.
Technical
Standard term in the professional music and opera industry for the specific role.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “chorusmaster”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “chorusmaster”
- Misspelling as 'chorus master' (two words); the standard form is a single compound noun.
- Using it to refer to the lead singer of a band (incorrect).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Not exactly. A chorusmaster specifically trains and rehearses the chorus. The principal conductor leads the entire performance (orchestra, soloists, chorus). The chorusmaster often works under the conductor's direction.
Primarily in professional opera houses, symphony orchestras with a dedicated chorus, and large, professional choral societies or festivals.
Often yes, but 'chorusmaster' is strongly preferred in the context of large, professional opera or symphonic choruses, while 'choirmaster' can apply to any choir, including church or community choirs.
Expert knowledge of vocal technique, score reading, languages (for diction), exceptional ear for blend and intonation, strong leadership, and rehearsal efficiency.
The conductor of a choir or chorus, especially one who prepares and leads the chorus in an opera company or large choral society.
Chorusmaster is usually formal / technical (musical) in register.
Chorusmaster: in British English it is pronounced /ˈkɔːrəsmɑːstə/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈkɔːrəsmæstər/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'Master of the Chorus' – the person who has mastered the art of directing a chorus.
Conceptual Metaphor
LEADER IS A MASTER CRAFTSMAN (The chorusmaster shapes and refines the raw material of the singers' voices into a polished performance).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary responsibility of a chorusmaster?