noun
taking the lead; leadership; leader; pacemaker
Refers to the act of leading a group, or the person who does so. Often used in contexts like initiating a project, leading a cheer, or setting the pace.
彼がプロジェクトの音頭取りを務めた。
He took the lead on the project.
乾杯の音頭取りは社長にお願いし
We'll ask the company president to lead the toast.
noun
chorus leader
Specifically the person who leads a group song or chant, such as at a festival or party.
宴会で彼が音頭取りになって皆で歌を歌った。
At the party, he became the chorus leader and everyone sang together.
リーダー is a general loanword for 'leader'. 音頭取り implies a more active, often ceremonial or group-coordinating role.
Compound of 音頭 (ondō, 'leading a song or chant') and 取り (tori, 'taker, person who takes'). The exact historical derivation is uncertain, but the word is conventionally associated with leading group activities.