Purcell and Early Opera Flashcards
1
Q
Recitative
A
Musical declaration/speech that advances the plot
2
Q
Aria
A
A song, usually very emotional that shows off the performer’s technique usually the highlight
3
Q
Overtime
A
Piece played at the beginning of an opera, may intro melodies from the aria
4
Q
Sinfonias
A
Music played between opera scene
5
Q
Libretto
A
The text or script of an opera
6
Q
Masque
A
Entertainment that combined vocal / instrumental music with poetry and dance
7
Q
Hornpipe
A
Dance form associated with salors
8
Q
Scotch snap
A
Reversed doted figure (long short rhythm
9
Q
Ground Bass
A
Repeated phrase on a descending scale often a symbol of grief
