The word
maestro is most often used in addressing or referring to
conductors. Less frequently, one might refer to respected
composers,
performers,
impresarios,
musicologists, and
music teachers. In the world of
Italian opera, the title is also used to designate a number of positions within the orchestra and company that have specific duties during rehearsal and performance. These include: •
Maestro sostituto or
maestro collaboratore: musicians who act as
répétiteurs and assistant conductors during performances. •
Maestro concertatore: the keyboard
continuo player, who prepares singers and leads rehearsals. •
Maestro direttore: the leader of the first violins of the orchestra (see
concertmaster), who may also have administrative duties such as hiring and paying musicians. •
Maestro suggeritore: the
prompter. ==See also==