An aria is a solo song in an opera or classical music work, usually very expressive and emotional. It lets one singer show off their voice and feelings.
From Italian “aria” meaning “air” or “melody,” from Latin “aer” meaning “air.” The idea is of a tune that floats like air.
An aria is like a character’s private diary suddenly sung out loud in the middle of an opera. For a few minutes, the whole story pauses so one person’s feelings can fill the air completely.
In opera, arias have often been written for and associated with gendered voice types and roles, with women's arias sometimes emphasizing vulnerability or sacrifice and men's emphasizing heroism or authority. Casting and reception have reflected broader gender norms in music.
Use "aria" descriptively for musical pieces without assuming the singer's gender; when possible, describe voice type or role rather than equating certain emotional content with a specific gender.
When discussing opera history, acknowledge women composers, librettists, and performers whose contributions to iconic arias were overshadowed by male colleagues and institutions.
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