recitative
pronunciation
How to pronounce recitative in British English:
UK [ˌresɪtəˈti:v]
How to pronounce recitative in American English:
US [ˈrɛsɪˌtetɪv, rɪˈsaɪtətɪv]
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- Noun:
- a vocal passage of narrative text that a singer delivers with natural rhythms of speech
Word Origin
- recitative (n.)
- "style of musical declamation intermediate between speech and singing, form of song resembling declamation," 1650s, from Italian recitativo, from recitato, past participle of recitare, from Latin recitare "read out, read aloud" (see recite). From 1640s as an adjective. The Italian form of the word was used in English from 1610s.
Example
- 1. Recitative : and as moses lifted up the serpent ( bass )
- 2. Recitative : when jesus therefore saw his mother ( tenor , bass , chorus )
- 3. Recitative - duet : quand une volage beaute ( baritone , soprano )