concertmistress: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Low (technical term, with gendered alternative preferred)Technical, formal (musical context). Potentially archaic or dated.
Quick answer
What does “concertmistress” mean?
The leader of the first violin section in an orchestra or ensemble, who also plays occasional solo passages.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The leader of the first violin section in an orchestra or ensemble, who also plays occasional solo passages.
A specifically female term for the principal first violinist in an orchestra. She typically tunes the orchestra, leads the string section, and acts as a deputy to the conductor. In modern usage, the gender-neutral term 'concertmaster' is overwhelmingly preferred.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Both British and American English now almost exclusively use 'concertmaster.' 'Concertmistress' is found historically in both, but is now rare and considered by many to be outdated.
Connotations
In contemporary use, 'concertmistress' can be perceived as quaint, patronizing, or deliberately non-inclusive, whereas 'concertmaster' is the standard professional title.
Frequency
Extremely low frequency in modern published text and professional discourse. 'Concertmaster' is the universal standard term.
Grammar
How to Use “concertmistress” in a Sentence
[Orchestra Name]'s concertmistressthe concertmistress of [Ensemble]to serve/appoint as concertmistressVocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Academic
Used in historical musicology texts discussing past practices or specific historic ensembles.
Everyday
Virtually never used in everyday conversation.
Technical
May appear in older programme notes, historic recordings, or in very traditional contexts, but 'concertmaster' is the correct modern technical term.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “concertmistress”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “concertmistress”
- Using 'concertmistress' in modern professional writing; it should be 'concertmaster.'
- Confusing the role with that of a piano accompanist.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, in terms of the role and responsibilities. 'Concertmistress' is specifically the female-gendered form of 'concertmaster.'
No. The standard professional practice in modern English is to use the gender-neutral title 'concertmaster' for all holders of the position, regardless of gender.
In historical documents, older programme notes, biographies of musicians from earlier eras, or in very traditionalist circles. Its use in contemporary journalism or official orchestra communications is highly uncommon.
They might assume it is the common or only term for a female principal violinist, not realizing that 'concertmaster' is the correct and expected modern term.
The leader of the first violin section in an orchestra or ensemble, who also plays occasional solo passages.
Concertmistress is usually technical, formal (musical context). potentially archaic or dated. in register.
Concertmistress: in British English it is pronounced /ˈkɒnsətˌmɪstrɪs/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈkɑːnsərtˌmɪstrɪs/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a 'mistress of the concert' – a female leader of the musical performance. Remember that this 'mistress' is an expert violinist, not a romantic partner.
Conceptual Metaphor
LEADER AS A FEMALE CAPTAIN (of the violin section).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary reason 'concertmistress' is rarely used in modern professional contexts?