The conductor's cue
Example: The orchestra began playing at the conductor's cue during rehearsal.
Definition
"The conductor's cue" refers to the specific signal or gesture given by a music conductor to indicate when musicians should begin playing, change dynamics, or enter a particular section, ensuring coordinated performance during a rehearsal or concert.
Etymology
The phrase "the conductor's cue" combines 'conductor,' originating from the Latin 'conducere' meaning 'to lead or bring together,' and 'cue,' derived from the French word 'cue' meaning 'tail' or 'signal.' Did you know? The term 'cue' was once used in theater to prompt actors, and this usage extended into music for signaling musicians.
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"The conductor's cue" appears in the Vocaplus list "English - Music - (B2) - set 1", containing 100 commonly used words.
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