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Opera as Drama
Instructors:
Dr. Steven Williams (Office: Kittredge 129, ext. 3048)
Dr. David Mycoff (Office: Jensen 208; ext. 3721)
Email Steven or David
Class times: Tuesday, Thursday, Friday2 2:30-3:50
Opera as Drama schedule, spring 05
Description
Students are introduced to the world of opera with emphasis on the dramatic and musical aspects. The study of selected operas from various periods of history will include comic and serious operas. Analysis of complete operas will involve discussion of the libretto and the musical score.
Videos and recordings are available in the Music Library. Music Library hours will be posted. Students will need to arrange times to view complete operas or listen to recorded examples. Excerpts on CDs from selected operas will be loaned to each student.
Grading
Students will write 5-6 short papers (2-3 pages) responding to operas studied. Quizzes will focus primarily on listening recognition and important aspects from the assigned readings. The chief out-of-class work, other than the reading and writing assignments, will be listening to recordings and viewing videos of the selected operas and keeping a journal.notebook. Papers and quizzes will carry equal weight in grading.
Journal/Notebook
An important part of the course includes keeping a journal/notebook that includes comments on operas studied in class and comments on required and additional recordings and videos. Notes on composers, singers, conductors, designers, performances, etc. may be included. Please keep this notebook separate from other schoolwork.