Which term indicates a smooth, lyrical style of singing?

Which term indicates a smooth, lyrical style of singing?

• A. Ritardando
• B. Caesura
• C. Cantabile
• D. Dolce

Answer: (C)

Smooth, lyrical singing is signaled by cantabile. This Italian term means “singable” or “in a singing style,” and it cues a vocalist to shape the line with a flowing, legato connection between notes—creating a melodic, expressive quality rather than abrupt or detached phrasing. Ritardando refers to slowing the tempo, caesura marks a pause, and dolce means sweetly or softly; while dolce describes tone color, cantabile specifically targets the smooth, lyrical treatment of the melody, making it the best fit for a singing line that should sound naturally song-like.

Smooth, lyrical singing is signaled by cantabile. This Italian term means “singable” or “in a singing style,” and it cues a vocalist to shape the line with a flowing, legato connection between notes—creating a melodic, expressive quality rather than abrupt or detached phrasing. Ritardando refers to slowing the tempo, caesura marks a pause, and dolce means sweetly or softly; while dolce describes tone color, cantabile specifically targets the smooth, lyrical treatment of the melody, making it the best fit for a singing line that should sound naturally song-like.