Castrati

Definition

Castrati were male singers who were castrated before puberty to prevent their voices from deepening, allowing them to retain a high vocal range similar to that of female sopranos. This practice was prevalent during the Baroque period, particularly in opera, where castrati became celebrated stars due to their unique vocal abilities and dramatic performances.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Castrati were primarily trained from a young age, often in religious institutions or conservatories, where they received rigorous vocal training.
2. Famous castrati like Farinelli and Senesino became international celebrities, commanding high fees for their performances across Europe.
3. The practice of creating castrati was banned in the late 19th century due to ethical concerns and changing attitudes towards the treatment of children.
4. Castrati had an extensive vocal range and could sing both high notes and powerfully project sound, making them highly sought after for opera roles that required such capabilities.
5. Their performances often included elaborate ornamentation and embellishments, showcasing their technical skill and emotional expressiveness.

Review Questions

• How did the vocal training of castrati influence their performance styles in Baroque opera?
  • The vocal training of castrati was specialized and intense, allowing them to develop a unique sound that combined powerful projection with an extensive range. This training not only enabled them to sing high notes typically reserved for female voices but also to execute complex ornamentation that characterized Baroque music. Their performances were marked by both technical virtuosity and emotional depth, making them stand out in opera productions of the time.
• Discuss the cultural impact of castrati on the Baroque opera scene and their role as celebrity performers.
  • Castrati had a profound cultural impact on Baroque opera as they became the stars of the stage, attracting large audiences eager to hear their extraordinary voices. Their celebrity status led to a new level of fame for performers in general, with audiences fascinated by both their vocal abilities and dramatic presentations. The presence of castrati elevated the art form of opera, influencing compositions and performance practices while also sparking debates about ethics and human rights regarding their treatment.
• Evaluate the ethical considerations surrounding the practice of creating castrati and its eventual decline in the late 19th century.
  • The practice of creating castrati raises significant ethical concerns regarding the bodily autonomy and rights of children subjected to such irreversible procedures. As societal views on child welfare evolved in the late 19th century, the moral implications of using castration as a means to produce unique vocal talents became increasingly criticized. This shift in perspective contributed to the decline of castrati in music, marking a transition towards more humane practices in vocal performance while also changing the landscape of operatic roles that had traditionally relied on these singers.

Related terms

Bel canto: A style of singing that emphasizes beautiful tone and technique, often associated with the virtuosic singing of the castrati.

Opera seria: A form of serious opera that flourished in the 18th century, often featuring castrati as lead characters and emphasizing dramatic expression.

Vocal registers: Different ranges of tones produced by the human voice, including chest voice, head voice, and falsetto; castrati were known for their ability to blend these registers seamlessly.