“Il Mio Tesoro” by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: The Individual Features of Breath Control by Tenor Singers upon Performance of Vocalizations

Abstract

of the first time the features of breath control in the interpretation of the aria’s most complex and extended vocalization in the light of its different redactions are studied. It is shown that the idea of performing the virtuosic section of the aria in one breath is consistent with the text of the piano-vocal score and lies at the basis of the quicker tempo indicated in the main edition. In this regard, the work on coordination of breath control and voice mobility is of extreme importance for a better reflection of Mozart’s style. This study presents a system for identifying the various levels of breath control and determining the quality of phrasing of expanded vocalization, which are based on the degree of correspondence with the authorial text, both the verbal and the musical, as well as the duration of the phonatory exhalation. It is shown that the duration of phonatory exhalations during the performances of virtuosic vocalizations may vary within quite significant individual limits (up to 23 seconds long). It is noted that the levels of breath control do not form static formations: they can increase or decrease depending on the level of the performer’s training and motivation. guide for tenor singers when working on the interpretation of the virtuosic sections of this aria and for classical vocal teachers who make use of this aria to improve students’ vocal breathing, and may provide a basis for further study of vocal technique.