MU 498

Practice of Opera II

This course is a follow-up to MU 398, further deepening understanding of the practice of opera, and to a lesser extent, other musical theatre genres, both as class member and performer. It is designed for voice majors who normally have already completed 4 years of university level studio voice instruction, and in some cases, piano majors with an interest in opera coaching and collaborative pianism. 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). Students who are enrolled in 498 are deeply involved in all aspects of operatic production and performance. They act as mentors to students in 298 and 398, and take on the most responsible roles in both teamwork and role study, usually leading their teams. The intensive week of rehearsals for the main stage show is during winter term Reading Week. Prerequisites: MU398*. Exclusions: MU498* may not be taken concurrently with another large ensemble (MUX81, MUX82).