ALTO Meaning and
Definition
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Alto is a term that derives from the Italian language, and it refers to the vocal range and voice type of a singer. It is commonly used in music terminology to describe a female singer with a register between that of a soprano and a tenor, and it is often referred to as the second highest voice in music. Generally, the alto voice is characterized by a warm and rich tone, capable of producing lower and middle register notes with great depth and resonance.
In addition to its vocal meaning, alto can also refer to the musical instrument known as the alto saxophone. This instrument is a member of the saxophone family and is pitched in the key of E-flat. It is slightly smaller than the tenor saxophone and larger than the soprano saxophone, making it the most commonly used saxophone in classical and jazz music.
Furthermore, the term alto is also used to describe a part in choral music, where it represents the vocal range within the middle to low part of a four-part harmony. The alto part often provides harmonic support and counterpoint to the other voices, adding depth and richness to the overall sound.
Overall, alto encompasses various meanings related to music, including the vocal range of a female singer, the alto saxophone, and a specific part in choral music.
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In music, high; also in sculp.-basso, low, its opposite.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for ALTO *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for ALTO
Etymology of ALTO
The word "alto" derives from the Latin word "altus", which means "high" or "deep". In music, "alto" specifically refers to the highest male voice or the lowest female voice. It is also used to describe the second highest part in a harmony or the second highest instrument in an orchestra.
Similar spelling words for ALTO
- alate,
- all-out,
- Alita,
- Aalto,
- Alethia,
- Alethea,
- Alta,
- aleut,
- Aletha,
- alioto,
- allot,
- alloyed,
- Aleta,
- all too,
- aloud,
- Aldo,
- Alda,
- alt,
- Awalt.
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