recitative

• Passage vocal dans un opéra, un oratorio ou une cantate, chanté ou déclamé sur un rythme imitant les inflexions naturelles de la parole, servant souvent à faire avancer l'action ou le récit.

A vocal passage in an opera, oratorio, or cantata that is sung in a style imitating the natural rhythms and inflections of speech, often used to advance the plot or narrative.

1. Musical speech-like passageC1formal

   A style of vocal music that follows the natural rhythms and inflections of speech, often used in opera and oratorio to advance the plot or narrative.

   Récitatif

   • The opera begins with a short recitative that sets the scene.
   • The singer delivered the recitative with dramatic clarity.
   • In Baroque music, recitative often precedes an aria.