Features of teaching opera: technique, expressiveness and stage presence

Abstract

Introduction: Opera is one of the most complex areas of musical creativity, requiring a combination of vocal skill, acting talent and stage presence. Russian universities have developed unique methods for teaching opera, which allow them to take into account the peculiarities of the style of the Russian school of singing. Materials and methods: This study is based on the analysis of curricula and teaching materials of 5 leading Russian music universities (for example, the Moscow and St. Petersburg Conservatories). Approaches to the development of vocal, acting and stage skills, as well as the features of interdisciplinary training of students, were analyzed. Results: It was revealed that all universities reviewed pay great attention to individual lessons with specialists in vocals, acting and stage speech. At the same time, Russian universities widely use unique techniques for developing breathing and voice, developed within the framework of the Russian school of singing. In addition, special attention is paid to the history and traditions of Russian opera, which allows students to fully realize their creative potential. Students regularly undergo intermediate auditions before a commission of teachers, and also take part in open concerts and musical evenings. Such control allows us to objectively assess the progress of each student and adjust the individual educational trajectory.