Vocal Music of the Romantic Period

These flashcards cover key concepts, terminology, and definitions related to vocal music during the Romantic period.

Lieder

German word for song, specifically associated with the art songs of Franz Schubert.

Opera

A form of musical theater that combines singing, orchestration, and acting to tell a story.

Libretto

The text used in an opera, which is written by a librettist.

Score

The written music which includes notes, lyrics, and direction for performers.

Recitative

A style of singing that is closer to speech, used for dialogue in operas.

Ariel

A solo performance piece in an opera that is memorable to the audience.

Aria

An expressive melody sung by a single voice, typically part of an opera.

Leitmotifs

Musical themes associated with particular characters or concepts in an opera.

Falsetto

A vocal technique that allows singers to reach higher pitches, often with a lighter tone.

Rubato

A slight speeding up or slowing down of speed in music, enhancing expressiveness.

Vibrato

A slight, rapid variation in pitch during a sustained note, adding warmth to the sound.