What Are The Two Distinct Styles Of Opera? (Answers)
TWO DISTINCT STYLES OF OPERA – In this topic, we will now know and discuss the two distinct styles of opera.
Opera
An opera, according to Study, is a type of theatrical drama which is narrated entirely via music and singing. It is where music has a leading role and the parts are taken by singers. It is usually performed in an opera house, which is accompanied by an orchestra or at times, a smaller musical ensemble.
The Two Styles
- Opera Seria
- It is a style of opera in the 18th century. It is characterized by serious, and most of the time, historical themes. Opera seria follows an A-B-A pattern, where the first section presents a musical theme, the second section presents another theme, and the third section repeats the first theme.
- In opera seria, the most vital role is a talented male singer called the castrati and he usually takes the role of a heroic male character with a leading lady called a prima donna.
- Opera Buffa
- Unlike opera seri, which is more serious, buffa is more on the comedic approach. well-known in the 18th century, it features comedic, almost vaudevillian, topics with themes from daily life.
- It is usually a one-act skit that is performed during the intermission of serious operas but gaining fame made it a standalone style. The male vocal lead of this style is called a basso buffo.
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