MUS 201-02 - Intermediate Music Studies: Opera: Death, Drama, Desire.

4 credits (Spring)

Derided by some as a type of elitist torture, worshipped by others as Western culture’s greatest art form, opera has been the focus of controversy since its inception over 400 years ago. Opera has responded to these controversies in remarkable ways, proving over and again its tremendous power to express the full range of human passions and experiences. This course will view opera through the double lens of music and theatre. We will analyze what the earliest creators of opera sought to achieve through music, drama, dance, and visual spectacle, how their ideas were received and transformed by later generations, and what role opera has in society today. We will read selected dramas as literature, and develop strategies for listening that illuminate how the music expresses the drama. We will also examine aspects of opera production, including the frankly operatic interactions between composers, poets, designers, choreographers, producers, patrons, listeners, and-last but not least-singers. We will focus on works available on video, including the Metropolitan Live in HD broadcasts, and will take a field trip to hear a live opera performance, including backstage interviews with singers and directors. No musical experience necessary.

Prerequisite: None.
Instructor: Brown