MU398
Practice of Opera I
1.0 Credit

A continuation of 298, where all aspects of operatic production and performance are further deepened and refined through experiential learning. Concepts in acting/movement are periodically studied in further depth in separate groups from 298 students. The intensive week of rehearsal for the main stage production is during winter term Reading Week. It is designed for voice majors who normally have already completed 3 years of university level studio voice instruction, and in some cases, piano majors with an interest in opera coaching and collaborative pianism. While the course is required for performance majors, it is also open to all voice (and piano) majors interested in growing their skill in this highly collaborative art form. The course essentially functions as a paraprofessional working experience where students learn the tools of the operatic trade, equipping them with the fundamental foundational skills for the kinds of portfolio careers that may await them post-graduation. The course is structured as a series of weekly rehearsal segments where skill is built sequentially throughout both terms, culminating in public performances (excerpts in fall, a main show in winter).