Soprano

Soprano (Ital.), the highest species of voice. Its average range extends from C below the treble stave to A above it; but the greatest variety in compass and quality is found. The highest compass on record is that of Agnari, which on the testimony of Mozart reached to C in altissimo (three octaves). Music for this voice is now written with the G or treble clef; but in German full scores the old soprano clef, C on the first line, is still used. The mezzo-soprano has a somewhat lower range, usually from A beneath the treble stave to F on the fifth line. See VOICE.