What is a "castrato"?

A. A popular term for the violin
B. A celebrated female opera singer; a prima donna
C. A boy or adult singer who was castrated to keep his voice from changing so that it would remain in the soprano register
D. A woodwind instrument, developed during the early Renaissance, that sounds like a combination between a clarinet and a trumpet
E. A high, soprano-like voice produced by adult male singers when they sing in head voice and not in full chest voice

Castrati were male singers castrated before puberty to prevent their voices from changing. Often utilized in Catholic church choirs and Italian opera, they were sought after for their soprano and alto vocal range.

These singers were known for their unique vocal qualities, combining the purity and range of a boy's voice with the strength of a mature man's voice. The practice of castration for singing purposes was outlawed in Italy in 1861.

Opera requires well-trained, unamplified voices showcasing vocal virtuosity and the ability to project over orchestras. It features voices classified into soprano, mezzo-soprano, tenor, baritone, and bass, with exceptions like the countertenors who reach alto range.

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