What is a recitative?

In music, a recitative is a style of vocal delivery that falls somewhere between speech and song. It is characterized by a free and declamatory style, with a relatively unornamented melody that closely follows the natural rhythm and inflections of spoken language. Recitatives are often used in operas, oratorios, and other large-scale vocal works to advance the plot or provide narrative commentary.

Recitatives are typically accompanied by a simple instrumental accompaniment, such as a continuo or a single chordal instrument. This allows the singer to focus on the text and delivery, without being overwhelmed by the accompaniment.

There are two main types of recitatives:

* Secco recitative: This type of recitative is accompanied only by a continuo, which provides harmonic support. The singer has more freedom in terms of rhythm and melody, and can use a more naturalistic style of delivery.

* Accompagnato recitative: This type of recitative is accompanied by a more complex instrumental accompaniment, which provides a richer harmonic and melodic texture. The singer is more constrained in terms of rhythm and melody, and the style of delivery is more lyrical.

Recitatives have been used in music for centuries, and have been an integral part of many of the world's greatest operas and oratorios. Some of the most famous examples of recitatives include:

* The opening recitative of Mozart's opera "The Marriage of Figaro"

* The recitative "He was despised and rejected" from Handel's oratorio "Messiah"

* The recitative "O Isis und Osiris" from Mozart's opera "The Magic Flute"

Recitatives continue to be used in contemporary music, both in classical and popular genres. They can be found in operas, musicals, rock operas, and even film scores.