Recitavisti

Recitavisti is a term used in the field of musicology to describe a specific style of singing that emerged in the late 16th and early 17th centuries in Italy. The term itself is derived from the Italian word "recitare," which means to recite or declaim. Recitavisti singing is characterized by its declamatory, often dramatic, and expressive style, which contrasts with the more melodic and ornamented styles of the time.

The recitavisti style was particularly associated with the Monteverdi family, most notably with Claudio Monteverdi, who is often credited with developing this technique. It was used in various forms of music, including madrigals, motets, and operas. The recitavisti style is notable for its use of vocal ornamentation, such as trills and mordents, which were employed to enhance the dramatic effect of the text.

One of the key features of recitavisti singing is its emphasis on the text, with singers often using their voices to convey the emotional content of the words rather than focusing on melodic beauty. This approach allowed for a more direct and immediate connection between the performer and the audience, making the music more accessible and engaging.

The recitavisti style had a significant influence on the development of opera and other forms of dramatic music. Its expressive and declamatory qualities laid the groundwork for the later development of recitative, a form of singing that would become a staple of the opera repertoire. Despite its relatively short lifespan, recitavisti singing remains an important historical and stylistic category in the study of early music.