The evolution of female voice types in selected operas of Giuseppe Verdi

Abstract

The operas of Giuseppe Verdi (1813-1901) constitute an important aspect of nineteenth century operatic history. During the course of Verdi's compositional career, a time span of more than fifty years, an evolution of the conventional female voice types occurred in his operas. The soprano and mezzo-soprano vocal categories of the eighteenth century tradition developed new meaning and function through Verdi's work, leading the way to the current understanding and application of the terms. The evolution of the voice types can be traced through his major operas.

This study, presented in a lecture-recital format, comprises an analysis of the evolution of the female voice types found in Verdi's operas "Un Ballo in Maschera" (1859), "Nabucco" (1841), "Macbeth" (1847), "Il Trovatore" (1854), "Don Carlos" (1867), and "Aida" (1872). Portions of the major female roles in each will be discussed and illustrated with musical examples. Related material in other operas of Verdi will also be incorporated.

The lecture-recital is based primarily on contemporary analytical and biographical publications related to Giuseppe Verdi and his work. Other sources include scores and sound recordings of his operas, translations of his letters, and related historical materials.