Soprano

As Printed on a Score

Labels the highest vocal staff (Soprano; S., Sop. or Sopr. later; Soprani for a choir section, Soprano I and II when it divides), written in treble clef — older editions use the soprano C clef with middle C on the bottom line. The word also qualifies instruments (soprano saxophone), so read the full label on the first system.

Abbreviations: S., Sop., Sopr., Sop

Also spelled: Soprani, Sopranos

How Composers Use It

The highest voice, comfortable roughly from middle C to A5 in a choir and higher for soloists. Top notes carry over an orchestra but words become hard to understand there, so place text that matters in the middle of the range. In choral writing the sopranos usually carry the tune; give them a line that can be sung musically on its own, since every listener follows it.

Example

Schubert, Coronach, D. 836 (Op. 52 No. 4), m. 3: “Soprano 1” and “Soprano 2” mark the two upper parts of the women’s chorus, with “Alto” below them.

Related Terms