Crossword Genius

Copper, say, one giving out tickets (9)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

conductor

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

'copper say' is the definition.
(copper is a kind of conductor)

I cannot understand how the remainder of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for conductor that I've seen before include "Copper is a good one" , "Orchestral director" , "Director - band leader" , "Director of an orchestra" , "leader of the orchestra" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app