What style of singing is characterized by its speech-like quality used to advance the plot in operas and oratorios?

The style of singing that is characterized by its speech-like quality and is used to advance the plot in operas and oratorios is known as recitative. This form of musical expression mimics natural speech patterns, allowing for dramatic storytelling through music. Recitative serves a crucial role in opera and oratorio, as it helps connect the more lyrical moments of arias with dialogue, keeping the narrative flowing and engaging the audience.

The use of recitative allows composers to convey emotion and dialogue in a more direct and functional way, making it an essential tool for character development and plot progression. Unlike arias, which focus on showcasing the emotional expression of a character through melodic lines, recitative prioritizes the narrative function, making it akin to spoken word.

In contrast, while recitativo secco is a specific type of recitative accompanied only by minimal instrumentation—often just chords played on a keyboard—recitative as a broader category includes both secco and accompanied styles, where a fuller orchestral accompaniment might support the vocal line. The chorale, on the other hand, refers to harmonized melodies typically sung by a choir, which serves a different purpose than advancing the plot directly. Overall, recitative is a foundational element in the structure of oper