Legato

Definition

Legato is a musical term that describes a smooth and connected style of playing or singing, where notes are played or sung in a flowing manner without noticeable breaks. This technique is crucial in creating expressive musical phrases, particularly in opera, where the voice must convey emotion while maintaining technical precision.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Legato is often notated in sheet music with a curved line connecting the notes, indicating that they should be played smoothly.
2. In opera, legato is essential for conveying the emotional depth of the character and the drama of the story.
3. The ability to sing legato requires control over breath support and vocal technique, making it a fundamental skill for operatic singers.
4. Different voice types may utilize legato differently; for example, a soprano might emphasize high notes with legato to showcase brilliance.
5. Legato techniques can also influence orchestration, as composers often write parts for instruments that complement the vocal line's smoothness.

Review Questions

• How does legato contribute to the emotional expression in operatic performances?
  • Legato contributes significantly to emotional expression in operatic performances by allowing singers to connect notes seamlessly, which helps convey the character's feelings and intentions. When performed effectively, this smooth delivery enhances the overall dramatic effect of the music. It allows for longer phrases that can mirror human speech patterns, making the performance feel more natural and relatable.
• Discuss how legato contrasts with staccato and how both techniques are used in opera.
  • Legato and staccato are two contrasting techniques that serve different purposes in opera. While legato focuses on smooth connections between notes to create flowing melodies, staccato involves detached and crisp note separation. In operatic singing, these techniques can be used strategically to highlight different emotions or scenes; for instance, legato might be used during tender moments while staccato could emphasize urgency or excitement.
• Evaluate the impact of legato on the relationship between the voice and orchestra in opera.
  • Legato significantly influences the relationship between the voice and orchestra in opera by creating a cohesive sound that integrates vocal lines with orchestral accompaniment. When singers utilize legato, it encourages orchestral parts to support this fluidity through complementary phrasing and dynamics. This synergy enhances the overall musical texture, allowing both the voice and instruments to work together harmoniously, ultimately enriching the audience's listening experience.

Related terms

Staccato: A performance technique characterized by short, detached notes, creating a sharp contrast to legato's smoothness.

Phrasing:

The way in which a musician shapes a sequence of notes in a melody, often involving dynamics and articulations to enhance expression.

Vibrato: A technique used by singers and instrumentalists that involves slight variations in pitch, adding warmth and richness to sustained notes.