libretti

A singer holds a libretti while rehearsing on stage.

Definition

1. Noun (plural form):
   • Text of an opera or other long musical work: "libretti" is the plural of "libretto," referring to the written text or script of an opera, oratorio, cantata, or other extended vocal composition. It includes the spoken or sung dialogue, lyrics, and stage directions.

Usage Examples

• (The written texts of the operas were examined for their literary quality.)
• (The plural form indicates multiple opera texts from that era.)

Advanced Usage

• "to adapt libretti": to modify the written text of an opera for a new production or translation.

  • The director adapted the libretti to suit a modern audience while preserving the original plot. (The text was changed for contemporary relevance.)

• "libretti in translation": opera texts that have been rendered into a different language from the original.

  • Performance of libretti in translation often requires adjustments to fit the music's rhythm. (The translated texts must match the musical phrasing.)

Variants and Related Words

• Libretto (n, singular): the singular form of "libretti," meaning a single opera text or script.

  • The libretto for "The Magic Flute" was written by Emanuel Schikaneder. (The text of that specific opera.)

• Librettist (n): a person who writes the libretto for an opera or other musical work.

  • The librettist collaborated closely with the composer to ensure the words fit the music. (The writer of the opera text.)

Synonyms

• Text: the written words of a musical work (general term).
• Script: the written dialogue and stage directions for a performance (used for plays and operas).
• Lyrics: the words of a song or vocal piece (often used for shorter works).

Related Idioms

• "the libretti speak for themselves": an expression meaning the written texts are clear or self-explanatory.
  • When studying the operas, the libretti speak for themselves about the themes of love and betrayal. (The texts alone reveal their meaning.)