The Concertmaster

While the conductor may hold the baton, the concertmaster is largely in charge of the entire orchestra. A concertmaster (or concert mistress) holds a large amount of importance within an orchestra, but this musical position often goes unnoticed. Interestingly, a concertmaster will often approach the stage and take a bow before the conductor enters the stage area, but most people within the audience tend to disregard this traditional practice.

Specifically, a concertmaster holds the title of first chair within the violin section, but this special person does a lot more than make it all look very easy. Prior to any concert, it is up to the concertmaster to tune the entire string section of an orchestra, which can sometimes be a difficult feat. It is also the responsibility of the concertmaster to play any portion of music that requires a solo violin (unless it is a concerto). Additionally, the concertmaster is the one person that makes important decisions in regards to the entire string section, and is an integral part of any orchestra practice period as well.

It can be safely stated that the concertmaster is the most accomplished musician within the entire orchestra. All those musicians underneath the concertmaster must listen to specific orders given by this person, and the concertmaster answers to no one with the exception of the conductor. Within the musical hierarchy of things, the concertmaster is second in command after the position of a conductor. While most people are unaware that an orchestra consists of many different jobs, all orchestras must have a concertmaster in order for any music to be heard.