Key Facts

  • Starting
    23 Sep 2025
    Location
    Wandsworth
    Start Time
    09:50
    End Time
    11:50
    Duration
    12 Weeks
    Study Mode
    Part Time Day
    Days
    Tuesday
    Start Date
    23 Sep 2025
    Level
    Short Course
    Code
    WCRX234FC

    Fees

    19+ Fee
    £ 220

    Enrol

  • Starting
    13 Jan 2026
    Location
    Wandsworth
    Start Time
    10:00
    End Time
    12:00
    Duration
    10 Weeks
    Study Mode
    Part Time Day
    Days
    Tuesday
    Start Date
    13 Jan 2026
    Level
    Short Course
    Code
    WCRX002FC

    Fees

    19+ Fee
    £ 200

    Enrol

Enjoying Opera

Enjoying Opera

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The Operas of Mozart

If you enjoy or have an interest or are curious about Opera, then this may be a course for you. You will learn discuss opera with confidence and learn about the historical and social background of this fascinating art.

  • Entry Requirements


    No previous singing or musical experience is required.

    Enthusiasm for learning and participating in a supportive group environment.

    Willingness to engage in discussion-based activities.

  • Course Content


    The Operas of Mozart

    An inspiring 11-week journey through the operatic genius of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. This lecture series offers an accessible and engaging overview of Mozart's greatest operas, exploring their music, characters, and historical context. Perfect for newcomers and seasoned opera lovers alike, the course reveals why Mozart's works remain masterpieces of drama and beauty.

    You will learn: *Introduction to opera: history, styles, and key composers

    *Vocal techniques and performance skills

    *Understanding opera scores and librettos

    *Exploring character, drama, and storytelling in opera

    *Listening and analysing opera performances

  • Progression Next Steps


    Progress to Art Appreciation or other art based or performance programmes.

  • Additional Information


    Classes take place in a large classroom with a mega screen for immersive listening and viewing experiences.

    Course materials, including lyrics and listening resources, will be provided.

    Opportunities to continue exploring opera through local performances or further courses may be suggested.

    About the tutor: Richard Lawrence read music at Oxford. He started this 'Enjoying Opera' course at South Thames College in 1997. He has lectured abroad for Saga Holidays and Martin Randall, and for nearly 20 years has been a regular contributor to 'Gramophone' magazine.

  • Course Structure


    This course runs over 10 weeks, with weekly sessions combining lectures, discussions, listening exercises, and practical activities. Learners will explore the history and styles of opera, develop performance and analytical skills, and gain confidence in understanding and interpreting opera works.

  • Assessment Details


    Assessment is informal and based on participation, engagement, and progress.

    Learner progress will be assessed through a combination of:

    *Tutor Feedback: Continuous guidance and constructive feedback during practical exercises, character work, and performance sessions to help learners improve technique and expression.

    *Participation and Engagement: Active involvement in discussions, listening exercises, and group activities, demonstrating understanding of opera history, styles, and analysis.

    *Practical Application: Ability to apply vocal techniques, interpret characters, and convey drama in practical exercises or short performances.

  • Teaching and Learning


    The course combines interactive lectures, listening exercises, practical performance, and group discussions to develop both knowledge and skills. Activities include: