The correct way to spell "Vox Angelica" is with the letters v-o-x a-n-g-e-l-i-c-a. In IPA phonetic transcription, it would be pronounced /vɒks ˌændʒɛˈlɪkə/. This term is used in pipe organ terminology and refers to a stop that is intended to sound like a choir of angels. It is typically a type of flute or string stop that produces a bright and ethereal sound, often found in the upper register of the instrument.
Vox Angelica, often referred to as Angelic voice, is a musical term that originated in the Baroque era of Western classical music. It refers to a specific organ stop, which is a set of pipes that produce a particular tone or sound on an organ. The Vox Angelica stop is most commonly found on pipe organs.
The Vox Angelica stop produces a soft and gentle timbre resembling the sound of a human voice, particularly resembling the ethereal and delicate quality of a female choir. It is characterized by its smooth and clear tonal quality, resembling an angelic choir singing in a high register. This stop is typically found in the organ's expressive division, often in combination with other softer and mellower stops, such as the celeste or the flauto dolce.
The Vox Angelica stop is often utilized by organists to add a serene and celestial effect to their performances. Its inherent ability to evoke a sense of spirituality and tranquility allows for its effective use in religious and sacred music compositions, as well as in certain secular pieces where a delicate and heavenly ambiance is desired.
Overall, the Vox Angelica is a gentle and ethereal organ stop that produces a sound reminiscent of an angelic choir, making it a highly sought-after stop for organists seeking to create a soothing and celestial atmosphere in their musical performances.
The word "Vox Angelica" has its origins in Latin. "Vox" means "voice" and "Angelica" means "angelic" or "heavenly". In the context of music, particularly in relation to pipe organs, Vox Angelica refers to a specific organ stop or a set of pipes that produce a fluty, pure, or heavenly sound resembling an angelic voice. The term has been used since the 16th century to describe this particular organ stop or tonal effect.