In the XVIII century major aristocrats often approached a staff of musicians - orchestra, choir, soloists-singers. This state was also called the chapel, and its Director is the conductor. For example, the composer Haydn more than thirty years served as a bandmaster in the chapel of Prince esterházy.
Originally duties of Kapellmeister were very diverse. He had not only to direct all of the musicians, selecting the right songs and compose music, but also to monitor the status of musical instruments, musical library, to give singing lessons, in General, to do all that thought fit to entrust him with the master.
Over time the conductor remained predominantly conducting duties. Still later the Director of the Symphony orchestra conductor to call stopped: this term were until recently only to the conductors of a military brass band.
Now this title is quite out of use.