Crossword Genius

First-rate arrangement for a performer (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

artiste

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

'for a performer' is the definition.
(an artiste is a performer or entertainer)

'first-rate arrangement' is the wordplay.
I cannot really see how this works, but
'first' could be 'ist' (ist resembles 1st) and 'ist' is present in the answer.
an anagram of 'rate' is 'arte' which is within the left over letters.
This accounts for all the letters.
This explanation may well be incorrect...

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for artiste that I've seen before include "Performers" , "Tears it (anag.)" , "Player" , "Person playing" , "A sitter for creative person" .)

I've seen this clue in The Irish Independent.
Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.