Maestro (/ˈmaɪstroʊ/; from the Italianmaestro[maˈestro;maˈɛstro], meaning "master" or "teacher,"[1] plural: maestros or maestri) is an honorific title of respect, sometimes abbreviated Mo. The term is most commonly used in the context of Westernclassical music andopera, in line with the ubiquitous use ofItalian musical terms. The feminine form of the word ismaestra (pl.maestre).
The word is often used outside of music to refer to individuals of great skill or virtuosity.Roger Federer, one of the greatest tennis players of all time, is nicknamedthe Swiss Maestro by fans.[2]
The wordmaestro is most often used in addressing or referring toconductors. Less frequently, one might refer to respectedcomposers,performers,impresarios,musicologists, andmusic teachers.
In the world ofItalian 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:
