What is a concertmaster?

What is a concertmaster? What are his/her responsibilities?

The concertmaster is the lead violinist. As the violinist with the highest “rank”, he/she sits in the first chair, next to the conductor’s podium. The concertmaster leads the orchestra in its tuning prior to the concert, and customarily plays all of the violin solos within pieces. In addition, the concertmaster marks the orchestra’s scores with the appropriate bowings – so all the violinists are moving and playing in unison.

Why does the conductor shake hands with the concertmaster at the beginning and end of each concert?

When the conductor shakes hands with the concertmaster, it is a gesture of greetings or thanks to the entire orchestra. It is a custom of respect and a symbol of cooperation.