Opera Glossary

noun a deep or low-pitched musical voice or instrument

adjective relating to or having a bass voice or sound

• The basso voice of the opera singer resonated throughout the theater.
• I love listening to that guy with the deep basso voice on the radio.
• That basso dude has the sickest voice, bro.
• The basso rumble of the thunder echoed through the valley.

noun a style of singing characterized by beauty of tone and legato phrasing

adjective relating to or characteristic of the bel canto style of singing

• The soprano's performance showcased her mastery of bel canto technique.
• I love listening to singers who can really nail the bel canto style.
• That singer's bel canto game is on point!
• Her words flowed like a beautiful bel canto aria.

noun a display of great skill or talent

adjective showing great skill or talent

• The pianist performed with great bravura, captivating the audience with his skill and passion.
• She tackled the difficult dance routine with bravura, nailing every move with style.
• The rapper's bravura on stage was off the charts, he had the crowd going wild.
• Her bravura in handling the challenging project impressed everyone, showing her leadership skills.

noun a smooth, flowing, melodious song or melody

adjective relating to or characteristic of a cantilena

• The cantilena in the opera was beautifully sung by the soprano.
• I love listening to the cantilena in classical music.
• That cantilena was so catchy, it's been stuck in my head all day.
• Her speech had a cantilena-like quality, flowing smoothly and melodically.