1. a conductor of an orchestra, choir, or musical ensemble, especially in a German-speaking country or institution
Usage: German origin; often used in historical or classical music contexts; may refer to the director of music at a court, cathedral, or concert hall

Examples

• The kapellmeister led the orchestra through a spirited performance of Beethoven's Fifth Symphony.
• Bach served as kapellmeister at the court of Köthen before moving to Leipzig.
• The new kapellmeister brought fresh interpretations to the choir's classical repertoire.
• In 18th-century Germany, a kapellmeister was a prestigious position at any major court.
• The kapellmeister rehearsed the ensemble for three hours to perfect the difficult passages.