coloratura music Written by René Ostberg René Ostberg is an associate editor at Encyclopaedia Britannica. René Ostberg Fact-checked by Britannica Editors Encyclopaedia Britannica's editors oversee subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge, whether from years of experience gained by working on that content or via study for an advanced degree.... Britannica Editors Last updated May 26, 2026 •History coloratura, in opera, an embellished style of singing noted for its dazzling vocal acrobatics, such as fast-moving runs, trills, and leaps, that showcase the performer’s agility and range. The style is used to express heightened emotions, such as excitement, joy, or rage. Coloratura soprano refers to the type of voice that is capable of this difficult style of singing. One of the most famous examples of coloratura is heard in the Queen of the Night’s...

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