Una mirada más cercana 2: Lección 4

Alma mater refers to the school, college, or university that one has attended and graduated from. It is often used to describe a sense of attachment or pride in the institution, and alumni may refer to their alma mater with fondness as a place where they gained education, experience, and personal growth.

An alumnus is an individual, particularly a male, who has previously attended and graduated from a particular college, university, or school. This term refers to someone who is no longer a current student but has completed their studies and earned a degree or diploma. Alumnus typically remains connected to their educational institution through alumni associations or events, often contributing to or supporting their alma mater.

An aria is a solo vocal piece in an opera, oratorio, or other large vocal work. It is designed to showcase the singer's voice and emotional expression, usually with a more elaborate and expressive melody than other parts of the work. In an aria, the singer often reflects on personal feelings or a specific situation, providing a moment of musical and emotional intensity within the larger context of the performance.

An arpeggio is a musical technique where the notes of a chord are played in sequence, one after another, rather than simultaneously. It is often played in an ascending or descending order, creating a flowing, broken chord effect. For example, if a chord consists of the notes C, E, and G, an arpeggio would involve playing these notes individually in a smooth, connected manner. Arpeggios are commonly used in various musical styles to add texture and movement to a piece.

Tempo is the speed at which a piece of music is played. It indicates how fast or slow the beat of the music should be, affecting the overall pace of the performance. Tempo is usually measured in beats per minute (BPM) and can be marked in sheet music with terms like "allegro" for fast or "adagio" for slow. It helps to set the mood and energy of the music, guiding performers on how quickly or slowly to play each section.

Coloratura refers to a type of singer, usually a soprano, known for their ability to perform elaborate and intricate vocal passages with agility and precision. This type of singing involves rapid runs, trills, and high notes, showcasing exceptional technical skill and control. Coloratura singers often take on roles that require a high degree of vocal ornamentation and are featured prominently in operas and other vocal performances that demand these advanced abilities.

A contralto is a female singer with the lowest vocal range in classical and choral music. Contraltos possess a deep, rich voice that allows them to sing lower notes with ease, often covering roles and parts that require a lower register. This voice type provides a unique and powerful sound that complements higher voices such as sopranos. Contraltos are known for their ability to express a wide range of emotions and contribute significantly to the overall depth and texture of vocal performances.

A falsetto is a singer who predominantly uses a high vocal register, achieved by manipulating the vocal cords to produce pitches that exceed their normal vocal range. This voice type can be found in both male and female singers, though it is often associated with male singers who use this technique to reach higher notes with a light, airy quality. Falsettos are known for their ability to perform music with a distinct, ethereal sound, adding a unique dimension to both solo and choral performances. This high register allows them to explore musical ranges and expressiveness beyond their natural voice capabilities.

A largo is a musical piece or movement that is played at a very slow and broad tempo. The term "largo" suggests a spacious and majestic quality, giving the music a solemn and contemplative character. This tempo allows for deep expression and careful phrasing, creating a sense of grandeur and calm. Largo pieces are often used to convey profound emotions or to provide contrast within a larger composition.

A maestro is a highly respected and skilled conductor or leader in the world of music, often associated with orchestras, choirs, or other musical ensembles. The term is used to denote someone with exceptional expertise in directing performances and interpreting musical works. A maestro guides the ensemble through rehearsals and performances, ensuring that the musicians work together harmoniously and achieve the desired artistic expression. The title also implies a deep understanding of music and a high level of artistic authority and experience.

Mezzo-soprano is a type of female singing voice that lies between the soprano and contralto ranges. It is characterized by a warm, rich tone and covers notes from the middle to lower part of the vocal spectrum. Mezzo-soprano voices are often used for roles that require a versatile voice with both dramatic and lyrical qualities. This voice type is commonly featured in opera, choral music, and other vocal performances and can portray a wide variety of characters, from young heroines to older, more complex figures.

A prima donna is the leading female singer in an opera or opera company. She is typically the star of the performance, taking on the most prominent and demanding roles in the production. The prima donna is known for her exceptional vocal talent and significant stage presence. Her role involves not only delivering powerful performances but also often influencing the overall direction of the opera and the dynamics within the company.

The rectum is the final segment of the large intestine located just above the anus. Its primary function is to store feces until they are ready to be eliminated from the body. The rectum is responsible for the voluntary control of defecation, allowing the individual to determine the appropriate time and place for bowel movements. It also contains sensory receptors that provide feedback on the consistency and volume of stool, aiding in the regulation of bowel movements. The rectum plays a vital role in the elimination of waste materials from the body through the process of defecation.

The scrotum is a sac-like structure located behind the penis in the male reproductive system. It contains and protects the testicles, epididymis, and part of the spermatic cord. The scrotum is made up of skin and muscle tissue, and its primary function is to regulate the temperature of the testicles. It can contract or relax to bring the testicles closer to the body for warmth or allow them to hang lower to dissipate heat. The scrotum plays a crucial role in maintaining the optimal conditions for sperm production and overall reproductive function.