Here are most of the terms that we will learn about as part of the Opera Unit:
Overture an instrumental introduction to an opera, an oratorio, or other stage work; the term is sometimes given to an independent orchestral composition. A good overture is made up of several contrasts such as loud soft, slow fast, etc. The purpose of an overture in an opera or musical is to set the mood for the audience to prepare them for the production.
Oratorio a musical drama for voices and orchestra, usually based on a religious narrative; usually performed without scenery or action.
Opera - a theatrical production combining drama, vocal and orchestral music, costumes, scenery, and sometimes, dance.
Musical a theatrical production combining drama, vocal and orchestral music, costumes, scenery and sometimes dance. A musical also contains spoken dialogue within the production.
Prelude an instrumental introduction to a musical drama, usually shorter than an overture; also, a short, independent composition.
Theme Music music composed around a certain idea or thought or to represent something either physical, emotional, or spiritual.
Operetta usually a romantic, comic opera includes songs and dancing.
Opener a lively, upbeat song that is generally used to open a musical. It is performed after the overture and usually features most of the musical cast and is considered a big production number.
Plot the story around which the musical or opera is based.
Aria a song for solo voice, often designed to show off a singers vocal ability.
Duet a song written for two voices.
Recitative a speechlike, declamatory vocal style that is used in the conversational passages in an opera.
Chorus the part of an opera sung by a large group.
Libretto the text of an opera; from the Italian word meaning little book.
Score what the conductor of the orchestra uses to lead an opera or musical. The score contains both the music and the vocal parts.
Entr acte an instrumental piece played between the acts of an opera.
Coloratura a soprano who has been specially trained to sing rapid passages, trills and difficult runs.
Bravo a cheer of approval for male opera singers.
Brava a cheer of approval for female opera singers.
Legato Italian meaning to smoothly connect notes.
Staccato Italian meaning to make notes short, detached and separated.
Verisimo Italian meaning realism or the idea of taking events from real life and using those ideas to make an opera or drama.
12/11/2002