Recitativos

Recitativos, also known as recitatives, are a type of vocal music that is characterized by its declamatory style, where the text is spoken rather than sung. This style is often used in opera and oratorio to convey dialogue, narration, or exposition. Recitativos are typically written in a simple, unadorned manner, with a steady rhythm and a limited range of notes. They serve to advance the plot, introduce characters, or provide background information, and are often accompanied by instrumental music.

There are several types of recitativos, including secco, accompagnato, and staccato. Secco recitativos are unaccompanied, while accompagnato recitativos are accompanied by instrumental music. Staccato recitativos are characterized by their short, detached notes, which give them a more spoken quality. Recitativos can also be classified as either recitative secco or recitative accompagnato, depending on whether they are accompanied or not.

Recitativos are an important element of the Baroque era, where they were used extensively in operas and oratorios. They were also used in the Classical era, although less frequently. Today, recitativos are still used in opera and oratorio, and are an important part of the musical repertoire. They are typically performed by singers, although they can also be performed by instrumentalists or spoken by actors.