Plural of countertenor; multiple male singers with high vocal ranges, or when referring to the collective group of such singers.
From countertenor + -s (standard English plural). This straightforward plural form is commonly used in musical contexts when discussing groups of such singers or ensemble compositions.
Famous countertenors like Philippe Jaroussky are basically breaking people's minds because they sing opera roles that were originally written for women, but in this achingly beautiful way that feels completely different!
Same as countertenor: plural form carrying the same gendered history of vocal exploitation and exclusion.
Use 'countertenors' with awareness that this vocal range reflects historical exclusion of women from roles now claimed by men.
Women's contributions to high-register vocal art were erased by reservation of countertenor roles for castrated or naturally high-voiced men in church and operatic settings.
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