Opera Terms and Definitions

An opera is essentially a ______ set to music, combining vocal performance with instrumental accompaniment to tell a story.

The text of an opera is known as the ______, and it contains all the words and stage directions for the performance.

A vocal style that imitates the rhythms and pitch fluctuations of speech is called ______, and it's primarily used to advance the plot in opera.

An ______ is a song for solo voice with orchestral accompaniment, providing a musical and emotional highlight in opera.

An ______ is a musical number for two solo voices accompanied by orchestra, often used to express love or conflict in opera.

A ______ is a musical number for three or more solo voices accompanied by orchestra, adding complexity and texture to the operatic score.

The ______ is a group of singers performing together, commenting on the action and providing commentary or background.

[Blank] is the orchestral composition performed before the curtain rises in an opera, setting the mood and introducing musical themes.

An opera that is sung throughout without spoken dialogue is known as a ______-sung opera, common in certain operatic traditions.

The leading man in an opera is called the ______, and the leading lady the prima donna.

In opera, a low male voice is categorized as ______, often portraying villains or authority figures.

A high male voice, often singing heroic roles, is classified as ______ in opera.

The female equivalent of the tenor, singing leading female roles, is typically a ______.

An opera based on a serious, historical, or mythological subject is known as ______ opera.

Comic opera, or ______, often employs satire and humor to entertain audiences with lighthearted stories and characters.

Wagner's operas are known as ______ operas, representing a complete art work.

The practice of singing melodies extracted from operas is called ______, and it allows audiences to enjoy the music outside the theatrical context.

A special effect in singing, known as ______, is the rapid slide up or down a scale.

[Blank] is a singing style that emphasizes beauty and agility of the voice, characterized by florid melodic lines.

A ______ is a transitional section in opera, often introducing new musical themes, connecting scenes, or providing contrast.

The term '______' refers to a performer who is highly celebrated, commanding high fees and significant public attention.

A device used by composers to musically represent particular characters, objects, or ideas, called a ______, is common in Wagnerian opera.

Opera companies typically employ a ______, who is in charge of the orchestra, singers, and overall musical aspects of the production.

In opera, ______ refers to the visual elements such as scenery, costumes, and lighting, enhancing the dramatic experience.

The ______ is the person responsible for designing the visual aspects of an opera production, including scenery, costumes, and props.

A ______ is a singer who is able to perform both male and female roles, which can add to the opera's complexity.

An ______ might include dancing and acting, and typically has a lighter storyline.

Certain actions are considered bad luck before a premiere, such as whistling in the theater, or wishing someone ______.

When the audience is especially pleased by a performer, they yell '______,' which means 'again' in Italian.

When there is a standing ovation after a performance, frequently audience members will yell '______,' especially for a favorite peformer.

The lowest female voice is referred to as ______, such as that in the role of Carmen.

The first public opera house opened in ______ in 1637.

The most famous castrato was ______, one of the finest singers in history.

An ______ is a male singer who sings in the female alto range.

The original Baroque opera houses were lit with ______, which could sometimes set the theater on fire.

In some operas like Carmen, the ______ provide a local flair to the story.

The tragic opera La Boheme by Puccini is set in 19th century ______.

Many famous operas, such as Aida, have featured ______ in the large production.

In opera, the ______ is the bridge between the singer and audience, providing a fuller sound.

Many operas tell stories of ______, such as Madame Butterfly.

Some operas have very dark themes, such as the tale of the murderous barber in ______ Todd.