Introduction to Opera Directing (Intensive)

The module will begin with a practical investigation of the role of the opera director, which will include an analysis of the process of opera production from the moment the opera director is engaged to the final performance. Students will reflect on their own skill-base and experience to determine how completely they at this point in their learning could fulfil that role. This will in itself enable the teacher to diagnose areas of support and guidance for each learner as the module proceeds. Analysis will be introduced by group discussion, and the undertaking of tasks and further discussion in small groups, paying particular attention to political and historical context, developments in the arts as a whole, source material (eg original novel, play or myth), composition and first performance, style (eg bel canto, opera seria, opera buffa, Music Drama), plot, characters, and previous iconic productions. An Analysis Task will allow students to develop these skills independently.

A series of Practical Workshops will introduce students to rehearsal techniques and practical exercises to include movement, improvisation, the sharing of personal experience, and all aspects of workshop based learning. Rehearsal techniques to be explored include: the introductory workshop – ‘getting to know you’, character work and improvisation, text analysis – intention and subtext, getting started in rehearsals, advice on working with performers in a rehearsal situation, and decision making in rehearsals.

In the final assessment, the student will prepare a session designed to introduce, investigate, and rehearse a scene from the opera analysed in the Analysis Task.

Learning throughout the module is supporting by a structured reflective report that itself forms part of the assessment for the module.

Module aims

• Enable you to gain an understanding of the skills that are central to fulfilling the role of opera director
• Introduce you to two aspects of opera directing: analysis and preparation; and rehearsal techniques
• give you an opportunity to develop your skills and understanding of rehearsal techniques through practical group work
• develop a group dynamic that is supportive and challenging, and in which peer feedback is an essential part of the learning process
• place personal development planning at the heart of the module and to underpin that with consistent use of reflective practice, formative assessment and goal setting

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of this module you will be able to:

• LO1 Demonstrate an understanding of the role, skills, and qualities required in an opera director
• LO2 Demonstrate practical skills of analysis and direction that are underpinned by effective research and reflection
• LO3 Collaborate actively and generously in the learning process

Assessment

Assessment 1: Presentation (45%)

Assessed LOs: 1, 2, 3

Assessment criteria for Assessment 1

Assessors will look for:

• Knowledge of and creative insight into the source material
• Understanding of the context for and reception history of the source material
• Effective and engaging presentation

Assessment 2: Practical assessment (45%)

Assessed LOs: 1, 2

Assessment criteria for Assessment 2

Assessors will look for:

• A creative response to the source material
• Clear and effective direction of singers
• An imaginative response to the material and the creative moment of rehearsal
• Effective working with singers and other colleagues in a creative, collaborative and supportive context

Assessment 3: Reflective report (10%)

Assessed LOs: 3

Assessment criteria for Assessment 3

Assessors will look for:

• Comprehensive understanding of the role of opera director
• Insight into the range and depth of skills required in leading an opera production
• Understanding of the key personal qualities required to work with the range of artists involved in opera production
• A collaborative and generous approach to reflective tasks

Feedback

You will receive continuous verbal feedback from both peers and module team in the practical workshops. You will receive written feedback on all of the module assessments.

Resources

Key resourcs will be recommended by the module team.

Summary details

Module title	Introduction to Opera Directing (Intensive)
SCQF level	11
Credit rating	10 SCQF (5 ECTS)
Total notional student effort hours	100
Status	Option
Module coordinator	Mark Hathaway
Pre-requisites	None
Co-requisites	None
Anti-requisites	None
Learning modes	Indicative hours
Workshops	28
Tutorials	1
Assessment	2.5
Independent study	68.5
Total notional student effort	100