recitativo secco

Recitativo secco is a style of musical monody that imitates the rhythms and accents of spoken language. Developed in the late 1500s, it was a departure from the polyphonic style of earlier choral music.1

This style is characterized by its free rhythm, dictated by the spoken text, and simple, chordal accompaniment, typically provided by a continuo (cello and harpsichord). The melody in recitativo secco uses only a few pitches, closely approximating speech. It was primarily used in operas, oratorios, and cantatas to convey dialogue and advance the plot or narrative. This contrasts with recitativo stromentato, or accompanied recitative, which features a stricter rhythm, more involved orchestral accompaniment, and a more melodic vocal line, often leading into a formal aria.12