Opera: History, Trends, and the Universal | Community Music School

In a world obsessed with short-lived trends and new media, how do operatic themes remain universal and relevant? The multilayered trickery in Mozart’s Così Fan Tutte still makes us laugh; we continue to mourn the fate of La Traviata’s Violetta; and Puccini’s message in La Bohème remains so powerful that it was reimagined nearly a century later as Broadway’s RENT (1994). What is so appealing about opera? 

This course traces elements of the genre that lead to its everlasting allure. Starting with Mozart, this class will challenge opera connoisseurs and students new to opera alike, as we will explore central themes displayed in both well-known and lesser-known works on our journey to understanding the combination of music and drama in one of the most important art forms in the Western world. Each class will be devoted to one topic, illustrated with video clips and discussions in a fast-paced, fun, and informative environment.

The School of Music's Community Music School is open to all members of the community. To register for the course, click here.

Registration fees are $200 for the entire course (includes all class meetings). If you wish to register for an additional Community Music School course, each additional course is offered at a discounted fee of $150. All course fees directly benefit the School of Music. Please note that this is not a UF credit-bearing course.

Opera: History, Trends, and the Universal is taught by Emily Theobald. The class meets Tuesdays from 7 - 8:30 p.m. July 2 - August 6. 

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MUB 142

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