opera terms Flashcards
1
Q
libretto
A
- the text of an opera, oratorio or cantata
- usually written by someone other than the composer
2
Q
aria
A
- Italian for “air”
- a solo song with accompaniment, heard in an opera, oratorio or cantata
- highly emotional and often virtuosic
- may have lyrical or dramatic qualities
- often serves to reveal the character’s most intimate emotions
3
Q
recitative
A
- a speech-like style of singing used in operas, oratorios, and cantatas
- follows inflections of the text, resulting in rhythmic flexibility
- usually used to advance the plot or storyline
- moves through text quickly
4
Q
ostinato
A
- Italian for “obstinate” or “persistent”
- a rhythmic or melodic patterns repeated for an extended period
5
Q
habanera
A
- Cuban dance-song
- characteristic rhythmic motive, often used as an ostinato