FAQ
What is concert opera?
Concert performances of opera are usually presented in a concert hall instead of an opera house with the orchestra and conductor joining the chorus and singers on stage rather than playing in the orchestra pit. In a concert performance, there are no sets, no costumes, and very little staging. Even without the theatrics, concert opera can tell a story as well as any staged opera. In a concert performance, it's all about bringing the excitement and drama of the music to the audience.
Why do we choose this format instead of a staged version?
During a concert opera performance, the focus is entirely on the performers and their dynamic interaction with their audience. There is nothing to upstage the music and dramatic interpretations at hand. Also, with a lower cost of production, concert performances give opera companies a chance to perform works that otherwise wouldn’t be performed. Without this concert format, many lesser performed operas would have been lost to history, and the opera cannon wouldn’t be what it is today.
What is bel canto opera?
Bel canto singing literally translates to beautiful singing. It also refers to a specific singing technique. Bel canto singers produce a smooth transition as the voice moves from the low register to the middle and all the way up to the high registers. These singers are also capable of effortlessly executing runs, trills, and all sorts of vocal embellishments to the melodic construction.
What can I expect from my first concert opera experience?
At a concert opera performance, you will experience a myriad of talented performers from the singers to the orchestra musicians all working together to create a successful and entertaining performance. You will hear mainly two modes of singing: recitative, a dialogue sung between two or more characters and arias, when the character expresses their emotions through song. Applause is welcome! Audience members often applaud or express a hearty “Brava!” at the end of an impressive part of the performance.
What should I wear to a concert opera performance?
Contrary to belief, there is absolutely no right or wrong way to dress for the opera! It is all about the opera-goers’ comfort, as many operas are about three hours long including intermissions.
What are supertitles?
Supertitles are the translated text of the opera and are projected above the stage during the performance. Their primary purpose is to help the audience understand the foreign text. However, operas written primarily in English often utilize supertitles as well.
Can I bring my children to the opera?
Yes! A child’s exposure to the arts will benefit them greatly! Here are a few helpful tips when planning a family trip to the opera:
Listen and dance to the opera beforehand. The more the child listens to the music, the more they will enjoy the performance and even recognize a tune or two!
Choose wisely. Some operas will be more child friendly than others. Some have a more comedic tone and will bemore engaging for a young child.
Try a matinee performance. While we typically perform in the evening, there are several other opera companies in the DMV (D.C./Maryland/Virginia) that offer performances earlier in the day. These may be more suitable for your child’s schedule.
How can I learn more about the operas?
Washington Concert Opera offers plenty of opportunities to learn more about the operas!
Pre-Performance Talks: A free pre-performance talk is often given by General Director of Vocal Arts DC and WCO co-founder Peter Russell in Lisner Auditorium one-hour prior to our performances.
Opera Gems: WCO frequently presents Opera Gems: an engaging and enlightening lecture series throughout the season focusing on WCO productions and opera history. Led by WCO co-founder Peter Russell, Opera Gems typically take place in the weeks leading up to each performance.
Opera Insights: In this podcast series, Artistic Director/Conductor Antony Walker and others will look at the world and history of opera from different and unique perspectives.
Opera Explained: An animated YouTube video series is a fun and engaging way to learn about opera! These videos clearly explain frequently asked questions such as “What is concert opera?” or “What are the different voice types heard in an opera performance?”