How Do You Spell RECITATIVO?

Pronunciation: [ɹɪsˌɪtɐtˈɪvə͡ʊ] (IPA)

Recitativo is a term used in music to indicate a speech-like or declamatory style of singing, often used in operas, cantatas, and oratorios. This word is spelled using the IPA phonetic transcription system as /ˌrɛsɪtəˈtiːvəʊ/, with the stress on the third syllable. The "ti" in the word is pronounced like "t" in "tea," and the "o" at the end is pronounced like "oh." The spelling of this word reflects its Italian origin, where it means "recitative."

RECITATIVO Meaning and Definition

1. Recitativo is a term used in music to describe a specific style of vocal performance that falls between singing and speaking. Derived from the Italian word "recitativo" meaning "recited," it is a musical form predominantly found in opera, oratorio, and cantata compositions.

   Recitativo is characterized by its melodic and rhythmic flexibility, as it closely imitates natural speech patterns. The vocal line often follows the natural contour and rhythm of the spoken words, emphasizing the text and allowing for clear storytelling. It serves as a means to advance the plot, conveying dialogue or narrative passages.

   Unlike other musical forms, recitativo focuses more on the expressive aspects of the music rather than strictly adhering to a traditional melodic structure. The accompaniment in recitativo is typically minimal, consisting mostly of simple chords or even a sparse orchestration, allowing the voice to take center stage.

   There are two main types of recitativo: secco and accompagnato. Secco recitativo, meaning "dry recitative" in Italian, is accompanied only by a basso continuo (harpsichord and cello), providing basic harmonic support to the vocal line. Accompagnato recitativo, on the other hand, is supported by a full orchestral accompaniment, offering more varied and complex musical textures.

   Recitativo has been used throughout the history of Western classical music, providing a bridge between the dialogue-driven spoken word and the more melodic and expressive passages of a composition. Its unique blend of speech and song contributes to the dramatic impact of the music and adds depth to the storytelling.

2. Recitative.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for RECITATIVO

• recitativ
• recitative
• eecitativo
• decitativo
• fecitativo
• tecitativo
• 5ecitativo
• 4ecitativo
• rwcitativo
• rscitativo
• rdcitativo
• rrcitativo
• r4citativo
• r3citativo
• rexitativo
• revitativo
• refitativo
• reditativo
• recutativo
• recjtativo

Etymology of RECITATIVO

The word "Recitativo" is derived from the Italian term "recitativo", which means "recitative" in English. The Italian word can be traced back to the verb "recitare", meaning "to recite". It also shares its root with the Latin verb "recitare", which carries the same meaning. In the context of music, "recitativo" refers to a style of vocal singing that is more speech-like, emphasizing the natural rhythms and inflections of speech rather than melodic lines. This style is often found in opera, oratorios, and other forms of vocal music.

Plural form of RECITATIVO is RECITATIVI OR RECITATIVOS