Faculty: Conservatory This major provides a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of opera and concert singing, focusing on the development of vocal technique, musical interpretation, and performance skills. Students will explore key topics such as vocal pedagogy, repertoire selection, stagecraft, and performance practice. The major emphasizes the integration of theoretical knowledge and practical skills to prepare students for careers in opera, concert performance, and related fields. **Learning Objectives:** - Understand the fundamental principles of opera and concert singing and their role in the performing arts. - Develop skills in vocal technique, including breath control, resonance, and diction. - Learn techniques for musical interpretation and expression. - Explore the principles of stagecraft and performance practice. - Understand the impact of historical and cultural contexts on opera and concert repertoire. - Analyze the challenges and opportunities of working in opera and concert singing. - Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills to address challenges in vocal performance. **Major Outline:** 1. **Introduction to Opera and Concert Singing** - Overview of opera and concert singing, its history, and its significance in the performing arts. 2. **Vocal Technique and Pedagogy** - Fundamentals of vocal technique, including breath control, resonance, and diction. - Techniques for developing and maintaining a healthy vocal practice. 3. **Musical Interpretation and Expression** - Principles of musical interpretation, including phrasing, dynamics, and articulation. - Techniques for expressing musical ideas and emotions through singing. 4. **Repertoire Selection and Preparation** - Overview of opera and concert repertoire, including arias, art songs, and oratorio. - Techniques for selecting and preparing repertoire for performance. 5. **Stagecraft and Performance Practice** - Fundamentals of stagecraft, including movement, acting, and character development. - Techniques for effective performance practice and audience engagement. 6. **Historical and Cultural Contexts** - Impact of historical and cultural contexts on opera and concert repertoire. - Techniques for understanding and interpreting repertoire within its historical and cultural framework. 7. **Ethics and Professional Practice in Singing** - Overview of ethical and professional considerations in opera and concert singing. - Techniques for ensuring ethical and professional conduct in vocal performance. 8. **Emerging Trends in Opera and Concert Singing** - Impact of emerging trends, such as contemporary opera and cross-genre collaborations, on the field. - Techniques for integrating new trends into vocal performance practices. **Assessment Methods:** - Vocal performances and recitals to evaluate technical and interpretive skills. - Written assignments and research papers to assess knowledge of vocal pedagogy and repertoire. - Presentations and reports on stagecraft and performance practice. - Participation in group projects and opera productions. **Recommended Textbooks:** - "The Singing Actor" by David Craig. - "The Art of Singing" by Luisa Tetrazzini and Enrico Caruso. - "A Soprano on Her Head" by Eloise Ristad. **Prerequisites:** Basic knowledge of music theory and vocal performance is recommended. This major is suitable for students in music, vocal performance, and related fields. **Major Duration:** Typically, this major runs for four academic years, with a combination of lectures, vocal coaching, and performance opportunities. **Certification:** Upon successful completion, students may receive a degree in Opera and Concert Singing, depending on the program and institution. **Target Audience:** This major is designed for undergraduate and graduate students in music, vocal performance, and related fields, as well as professionals seeking to enhance their skills in opera and concert singing. This major prepares students and professionals to excel in the field of opera and concert singing, leveraging theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and an understanding of historical and cultural contexts to deliver compelling and expressive vocal performances.