Classical Opera and Mozart Flashcards

Classical Opera Concepts

• Opera seria refers to serious or tragic operas that originated in Italy, characterized by an emphasis on arias and recitatives.
• This genre showcased the virtuosity of singers, aimed at an aristocratic audience.
• Plots typically revolved around heroic tales, often drawing from historical events but primarily focusing on mythology.

Opera Buffa

• Opera buffa emerged as a response to the desire for simplicity and relatability in operatic performances.
• This genre, known as comic opera, utilized down-to-earth plots that resonated with everyday experiences of audiences.

Trouser Role

• A trouser role (or breeches role) is a performance where women portray male characters, typically donning male attire such as tight-fitting knee-length pants.
• The term "travesti" is another name for this concept, revealing the historical practice of cross-dressing in opera.

Explore the rich world of classical opera with a focus on Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. These flashcards cover important terms, concepts, and the history behind opera seria, highlighting its significance in the musical landscape. Perfect for students and enthusiasts looking to deepen their understanding of opera and its cultural impact.