The baton



Example: The conductor raised the baton to start the orchestra.

Definition


"The baton" in music refers to a thin stick that a conductor holds and uses to direct the performance of an orchestra or choir, helping to keep time and indicate tempo, dynamics, and expression during a musical piece.

Translations



Etymology


The word "baton" comes from the French word meaning 'stick' or 'staff.' It originally referred to a short stick used as a symbol of authority or for practical purposes, and was adopted in music to describe the tool conductors use to lead ensembles. Did you know conductors didn't always use batons?

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"The baton" appears in the Vocaplus list "English - Music - (A2) - set 1", containing 102 commonly used words.
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