The Formal Recital is a program of songs selected from the abundance of music referred to as "classical" song.  Often such recitals are associated with the German term for songs "Lieder" and sometimes by the French equivalent -- "Chanson".

Audiences that appreciate formal recitals tend to be comprised of those who appreciate classical music or poetry and literature.  With proper program notes and engaging performers, formal recitals are quite accessible to the uninitiated.

Lyrics of songs in formal recital repertoire are particularly significant.  In fact, one can view formal recitals as a presentation a number of musical "short stories".

To enhance appreciation of both the musical and literary aspects of song selections, the audience is provided a printed program that includes titles and composers for all selections, often notes about the composers and poets for the selections, texts of songs, and English translations of those songs in foreign languages.  Also, performers occasionally directly address the audience with additional anecdotes or information.

Although strict rules for recital presentation have relaxed during the last 25 years, there still are common features associated with this formal type of program.  Musical selections generally are arranged in groups of three-to-five songs (if songs are particularly long, one or two selections may comprise an entire "group"), unified thematically, by composer, or by poet, and the audience is encouraged to enjoy the entire group of songs before applauding.  Often, a short break is taken between each group of songs, and generally there is an intermission mid-way through the program.

Recitals generally are arranged loosely chronologically, often beginning with pre-19th century music.  Commonly used selections include Italian songs from the 17th and 18th centuries, Bach, Handel, or Mozart selections, Renaissance music, or songs composed during early years of America's settlement.

Songs are presented in at least three languages, and in the United States, the last group of songs is often by American composers.  The time of this program is approximately one and one-half hours, including intermission and short intervals between song groups.