recitative

[US]/ˌresɪtə'tiːv/
[UK]/ˌrɛsɪtə'tiv/
Frequency: Very High

Translation

adj. recited, chanted, narrated.

Example Sentences

The opera featured a long recitative before the aria.

She delivered the recitative with great emotion.

The recitative led seamlessly into the ensemble number.

The singer's recitative was full of dramatic intensity.

The recitative set the stage for the character's emotional outburst.

The recitative serves as a bridge between musical sections.

The recitative is often used to advance the plot in opera.

The singer's recitative was praised for its clarity and diction.

The recitative provided exposition for the audience.

The recitative showcased the singer's vocal range.

Real-world Examples

So a recitative will be--and indeed all the arias will be accompanied by basso continuo.

Source: Listening to Music (Video Version)

" I'd sooner go without drink at Lammas-tide than be a man of no moon, " continued Christian, in the same shattered recitative.

Source: Returning Home

So low was an individual sound from these that a combination of hundreds only just emerged from silence, and the myriads of the whole declivity reached the woman's ear but as a shrivelled and intermittent recitative.

Source: Returning Home

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