Music majors learn opera not only through classroom study but also through on-stage performances, according to BYU-Hawaii students and faculty. “Island Magic: Songs of Opera & Musical Theatre,” was performed in the David O. McKay Auditorium on April 6. The presentation was conducted by students enrolled in MUSC 467 (Opera Literature II.)
Twelve students and two pianists were involved in the performance. Student performers wore costumes, expressing emotion through their appearance and their songs. The program covered scenes in various locations, including New York, India, and Paris. It incorporated comedy and tragedy to present different styles of opera.
Charlene Chi, the instructor of the Opera Literature II course, explained her class’ content. She mentioned opera Literature II includes the study of opera and musical theatre. In class, students learn about different operas, their dates of composition, and about musical composers.
Concerning the content of the performance, Chi said they extracted specific scenes from different operas. That way, audiences can see fragments of stories from different time periods.
Chi explained the purpose of this performance was to allow vocal majors to have more experiences singing on stage. “I think the best way for students to learn opera is to perform,” she said.
Chi mentioned how the performance was prepared in a short time and required inter-departmental collaboration. “It couldn't have happened without the theatre and costume departments; they all volunteer,” she emphasized.
Kaitlyn Bourne, a senior majoring in vocal performance from Utah, shared her feelings after finishing the performance. “I think it was great! Everything was prepared last minute, but we worked so hard, and we just did it somehow!”When it comes to the most profound parts of the performing experience, Bourne said everyone has great potential. “I realized I can do so much more than I ever imagined.”
Bourne described the difference between the Opera Literature II class and other vocal performance courses. She said while both classes require study, they are eventually expected to apply what they learn. “It’s so fun to put it to work,” said Bourne enthusiastically.
Cynthia Johnson, a sophomore majoring in vocal performance from Minnesota, shared her opinion about the vocal performance major offered at BYUH after watching the performance with the audience. She said vocal performance covers many areas, not only opera.
“I think it’s amazing that these people put so much effort into what they do,” said Johnson. “They can do so many different things regardless of the performances or teachings.”