18th-Century Opera: Handel & Mozart

About

In this breathtaking course, you'll get to know the music of two beautiful operas " both in their spellbindingartistry and colorful histories.

First, you'll travel to London in 1724, where George Frideric Handel premiered his most famous opera, Giulio Cesare. Meet the performers and experience what it was like to attend the first production, all while gaining an appreciation for the typical characteristics of Italian opera represented in this popular Baroque opera seria.

Then fast-forward 63 years to the Estates Theatre in Prague for the premiere of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's enduring classic, Don Giovanni. Learn about the challenges Mozart faced during the rehearsal process and the revolutionary relationship he created between music and drama in this opera.

What you will learn

• How singers and the orchestra interact
• How performances of these works have changed since their premieres
• The basic structures of Baroque opera
• Essential characteristics of Classical music
• Mozart’s techniques for representing characters through music
• How to compare the social and cultural contexts of the two premieres

Auto Summary

Embark on a captivating journey through the world of 18th-century opera with the course "18th-Century Opera: Handel & Mozart," offered by edX in the Arts & Humanities domain. This course delves into the enchanting music and vibrant histories of two iconic operas, providing a comprehensive appreciation of their artistry. Begin your exploration in 1724 London with George Frideric Handel’s celebrated opera, *Giulio Cesare*. Experience the excitement of its premiere, meet the performers, and uncover the typical features of Italian Baroque opera seria that made it a sensation. Then, fast forward to 1787 in Prague for the debut of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's timeless masterpiece, *Don Giovanni*. Discover the obstacles Mozart overcame during rehearsals and the groundbreaking way he intertwined music and drama to create this enduring classic. With a duration of 12 weeks, this foundational-level course is perfect for anyone interested in the rich legacy of opera, from history enthusiasts to music lovers. Available through a professional subscription, it offers a flexible and engaging learning experience guided by expert instructors, making it an ideal choice for those looking to deepen their understanding and appreciation of 18th-century operatic masterpieces.