Crossword Genius

Bug nearly put on band member in recital (4,6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

stag beetle

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'band member in recital' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are singular nouns, I don't see how one could define the other.

'bug nearly put' is the wordplay.
I cannot really see how this works, but
'bug' could be 'beetle' (I've seen this before) and 'beetle' is found in the answer.
The remaining letters 'stag' is a valid word which might be clued in a way I don't understand.
This explanation may well be incorrect...

'on' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for stag beetle that I've seen before include "Large insect with branched mandibles" , "Insect with antler-like jaws" , "Horny little creature" , "Six-footer" , "something some folk find creepy" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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