Cryptic crossword clue
What we must play off and on to a balding captain? 8

The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word OBLIGATI

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Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "What we must play" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case what we must play = obligati.
The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.
This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.

What does OBLIGATI mean?

OBLIGATI noun
  1. An obbligato section; a prominent countermelody, often written to be played or sung above the principal theme (in a higher pitch range).

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