bandleader

noun

band·​lead·​er ˈband-ˌlē-dər How to pronounce bandleader (audio)
: the conductor of a band (such as a dance band)

Examples of bandleader in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Mingus and his faithful were about both process and product; the bandleader wanted to nurture a tradition, not rupture it. Daniel Felsenthal, Pitchfork, 4 Apr. 2026 The amphitheater, where bandleader Cesar LaMonaca led an orchestra under the moonlight for nearly 50 years, was gone, eventually replaced and moved a bit north and booked with acts of the day. Miami Herald Archives, Miami Herald, 27 Mar. 2026 In 1960, Coltrane set out as a bandleader, with his musical sojourn defined by his spiritual quest. Andrew Gilbert, San Francisco Chronicle, 26 Mar. 2026 Artemis, the Grammy-winning all-star ensemble spotlighting women bandleaders, brings its bold, hard-driving sound to Saturday. Duante Beddingfield, Freep.com, 25 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for bandleader

Word History

First Known Use

1869, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of bandleader was in 1869

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Cite this Entry

“Bandleader.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bandleader. Accessed 5 Apr. 2026.

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