What does the word Kapellmeister mean?
The word Kapellmeister literally translates to master of the chapel choir. It emerged from German terms for chapel and master to designate someone in charge of music within a religious chapel setting.
Questions about Kapellmeister
Short answers, pulled from the story.
When did Johann Sebastian Bach work as Kapellmeister for Prince Leopold of Anhalt-Cöthen?
Johann Sebastian Bach worked from 1717 to 1723 as Kapellmeister for Prince Leopold of Anhalt-Cöthen. This appointment represented a senior role involving supervision of other musicians and considerable musical skill during the period between 1500 and 1800.
Why did the meaning of Kapellmeister change by the end of the 18th century?
Many nobility members declined economically relative to newly prosperous middle class groups by the end of the 18th century. Maintenance of a full musical establishment became too expensive for most aristocrats leading to steady decline in orchestras supported by aristocratic families.
Who was appointed Kapellmeister at St. Stephen's Cathedral in April 1791?
Mozart applied to become the Kapellmeister at St. Stephen's Cathedral in April 1791 and was designated by the City Council to take over following death of the ailing incumbent Leopold Hofmann. This never took place since Mozart died December 1791 before Hofmann did in 1793.
How is the term Kapellmeister used in contemporary German compared to Dirigent?
In contemporary German the term has become less common than Dirigent which means conductor. When used today it designates director or chief conductor of an orchestra or choir suggesting involvement in policy decisions like selecting repertoire and concert schedules.