recital

A recital is a public performance, usually by a single artist or a small ensemble, that presents a curated program of repertoire. The term is most closely associated with classical music, especially piano and vocal recitals, but it is also used for readings of poetry or prose and for dance performances.

Etymology: The word derives from the French reciter, from Latin recitare, meaning "to recite" or "to read aloud." In music, recitals typically emphasize deeply personal interpretation and technical command of the chosen pieces, rather than a broad variety of works or large-scale forces.

Musical recital characteristics: Programs are usually cohesive and may be built around a theme, a composer, or a particular instrument. Recitals generally last 45 to 90 minutes and may or may not include an intermission. The performance often takes place in a recital hall, a church, or a university venue, with a focus on intimate communication between performer and audience; program notes or spoken introductions are common.

Other forms: The term also applies to live readings of poetry or literature and to dance recitals, where choreographies are presented by a company or school. In educational contexts, recitals provide performance experience for students and may be part of degree requirements. Recitals are distinguished from larger concerts by their emphasis on a single performer or small ensemble and a narrow, focused program.

History: The recital as a formal artistic format developed in the 18th–19th centuries alongside salon culture and the rise of concert halls. It remains a common vehicle for showcasing technique and interpretive skills outside the orchestra repertoire.