Storytelling is a fundamental human need. It helps us understand each other, the world in which we live and a range of complex human emotions. In opera, the combination of words, music and drama tells stories in a powerful and extraordinary way. Literature and characters come to life, as the music expresses emotions in a way that words sometimes cannot.

Story
Through the seamless integration of music, words, theater and design, opera brings stories to life. As students engage in the world of opera, they will discover key storytelling elements: plot, sequence, conflict, theme and setting. They will learn how operatic conventions, such as arias, recitatives and orchestral interludes, move the action forward and reveal the true motivations and intentions behind a character’s actions.

To explore more about storytelling in opera, view these sample lessons:

Aida Lesson 2: Operatic Conventions		Don Giovanni Sounds of Learning: Plot the Action
Don Giovanni Guidebook: Story Line Analysis

Characters
Operas are full of complex characters. The musical choices a composer makes and the casting of different voice types gives us clues about these characters and helps us to gain a deeper understanding of their emotions, actions and motivations.

To learn more about characters and voice types in opera, view these sample lessons:

Aida Lesson 6: Motivation		Aida Lesson 7: Musical Characterization
Exploring Operatic Voices in Cinderella

Musical Expression
Opera is a unique and thrilling experience, one that transports us to another time and place. To establish the mood and setting, composers make specific musical choices and, together with singers and the orchestra, the action comes to life and the true intentions, motivations and subtext are revealed.

To learn more about musical expression in opera, view these sample lessons:

Aida Lesson 8: Plot and Setting Through Music		La bohème Study Guide Video
Bizet’s Use of the Orchestra in Carmen