Bandleaders

A bandleader is a musician who leads a band, directing its artistic and logistical aspects during performances and rehearsals. They are found in jazz ensembles and big bands, marching bands, concert bands, and many hybrid groups. In some contexts the bandleader is also the conductor, arranger, or musical director, while in others these roles are fulfilled by separate individuals. The bandleader sets the musical vision, determines repertoire, and guides the interpretation of pieces; they cue entrances, shape tempo and dynamics, and balance sections to realize the intended sound.

Responsibilities commonly include selecting or approving repertoire, coordinating arrangements, conducting rehearsals, hiring personnel, handling scheduling and travel, negotiating with venues or promoters, and sometimes overseeing recording or publishing matters. The exact mix of artistic and administrative duties varies with genre, organization, and tradition.

In jazz and popular music, the bandleader is frequently a performer who also composes or arranges material and leads solo sections. In orchestral settings, the conductor fills the leadership role. In marching or school bands, a dedicated director or drum major may carry the public leadership duties as much as the ensemble's musician.

Notable historical bandleaders include Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Glenn Miller, Benny Goodman, and Louis Armstrong, who led influential bands and helped define their genres. Modern and contemporary bandleaders such as Quincy Jones and Herb Alpert have continued the tradition of guiding large ensembles, often bridging performance with production, arrangement, and outreach.