da capo aria
An aria in ABA form in which the singer returns to the beginning and ornaments the repeat
In Depth
The da capo aria was the dominant operatic form of the Baroque era. After singing the A section and a contrasting B section, the singer returns to the A section (da capo, from the head) and is expected to embellish the melody with improvised ornamentation, demonstrating vocal skill and artistic personality. The form was central to Handel's operas and oratorios. Modern performers of Baroque opera must learn the art of ornamentation to perform da capo arias authentically.
The da capo repeat was the Baroque equivalent of a jazz solo — singers were expected to improvise elaborate ornaments that showcased their individual artistry.