Musically heightened speech that either reports dramatic action ...

[bobbie]

Musically heightened speech that either reports dramatic action or advances the
  plot is called __________. It often makes use of rapidly repeating notes that
  conclude with one or two long notes at the end of a phrase and is typically
  accompanied only by the basso continuo.

 
 

a. ritornello
  b. aria
  c. libretto
  d. recitative
  e. cantata

Question 2

Which composition is the first true opera in Western music?
 
 

a. Dido and Aeneas
  b. Carmen
  c. Orfeo
  d. Voglio morire
  e. Romeo and Juliet

[jaaaaaaa]

Answer to Question 1

D

Answer to Question 2

C

[bobbie]

Excellent

[Animal_Goddess]

Thanks for the timely response, appreciate it