Pier Francesco Tosi 
Observations on the Florid Song; Or, Sentiments on the Ancient and Modern Singers 

Pier Francesco Tosi’s ‘Observations on the Florid Song; Or, Sentiments on the Ancient and Modern Singers’ is a comprehensive examination of the art of singing, both in historical context and as it was practiced during the author’s time in the 18th century. Tosi delves into the technical aspects of vocal performance, discussing ornamentation and techniques used by renowned singers of the past, while also offering practical advice for contemporary performers. His writing style is scholarly and detailed, providing a wealth of information for any reader interested in the evolution of singing techniques. The book serves as a testament to Tosi’s expertise in the field of vocal music, making it a valuable resource for musicians and music historians alike. Pier Francesco Tosi, a prominent Italian singing teacher and composer, draws from his own experience working with singers to offer his insights in ‘Observations on the Florid Song’. As a respected figure in the world of vocal music, Tosi’s observations carry weight and authority, enhancing the credibility of his work. For anyone interested in the history and technique of singing, Pier Francesco Tosi’s ‘Observations on the Florid Song’ is a must-read. Whether you are a vocal performer looking to improve your skills or a scholar seeking to deepen your understanding of vocal music, Tosi’s comprehensive study offers valuable insights and practical advice.

Over de auteur

Pier Francesco Tosi was a significant figure in the realm of Baroque vocal music, both as a performer and as an author who provided insights into the art of singing during the early 18th century. Born in Cesena, Italy, around 1653, Tosi gained recognition not only as a refined countertenor but also as a maestro di cappella, accumulating extensive experience in the operatic and sacred music scenes of his time. He traveled through Italy and Europe, absorbing diverse approaches to vocal artistry which later informed his written work (Hunter, R. & James, C. 2007).

One of Tosi’s most notable contributions to music literature is his treatise ‘Observations on the Florid Song; Or, Sentiments on the Ancient and Modern Singers’ (1723). This seminal work provides a comprehensive guide to the techniques and aesthetics of Baroque singing, encompassing ornaments, phrasing, and expression, as well as advice on the cultivation of young singers. Tosi’s book stands as an invaluable resource for understanding period performance practice and the tradition of bel canto, influencing subsequent generations of vocal pedagogues and performers (Brown, H. M., 2002).

Tosi’s literary style combines practical instruction with anecdotal observations, offering a clear yet nuanced depiction of the art of singing in his time. His erudite approach to discussing vocal technique alongside his advocacy for expressive, text-driven performance reflects the larger artistic sensibilities of the late Baroque era. As a bridge between the practices of the past and the evolving styles of his contemporary world, Tosi’s work remains a pivotal text in the legacy of vocal music (Kimbell, D. R., 2017).