contralto (lower range)
[kən-ˈtral-(ˌ)tō]
nounfemininepl: contraltos
contralto (registro grave)
1. The lowest female singing voice, typically spanning from around the F below middle C to the second F above middle C
She is a contralto with a rich, resonant lower range that captivates audiences.
Ela é uma contralto com um registro grave rico e ressonante que cativa o público.
2. A female singer who possesses this vocal range
The opera house recruited a renowned contralto to perform in the lead role.
A ópera contratou uma contralto renomada para interpretar o papel principal.
3. Music written for or performed by a contralto voice
The composer wrote a beautiful contralto solo for the second act.
O compositor escreveu um belo solo de contralto para o segundo ato.
In Brazil and the USA, the contralto voice type is highly valued in classical music, opera, and choral traditions. Famous contraltos like Marian Anderson (who broke racial barriers in American opera) and contemporary artists remain influential. The term is used formally in music education, conservatories, and professional opera companies. In Brazilian popular music, deeper female voices are celebrated in styles like samba and bossa nova, though they may not use the classical 'contralto' terminology.
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