Alto
/ˈæl.toʊ/noun
A term used to describe a type of voice or musical part that is lower than soprano but higher than tenor.
Did you know?In music, the term "Alto" is derived from the Latin word 'altus', which also means 'high', creating a fascinating contradiction in its usage.
Etymological Timeline
Latin
Latin
altus
“meaning 'high' or 'elevated', often used in contexts of elevation or status.”
Old Italian
Italian
alto
“adopted from Latin, retaining the meaning of 'high' or 'tall', used for vocal ranges.”
17th Century
English
alto
“introduced into English musical terminology to refer specifically to a lower female voice.”
Modern English
English
alto
“now used to denote a specific vocal range in choral music, blending both its Latin roots and Italian musical traditions.”