Spring 2009

A Passion for Opera: The World's Greatest Singers!


Fleming, Netrebko, Villazon, Florez, Dessay. While not exactly household names outside the Opera world, they are among the dozen or so singers, who are the Gold Standard for Opera today. Announce any one of them, and the house sells out.

In the past decade, we have thrilled to a whole new generation of Divas & Divos, who are stepping into the shoes of a Pavarotti, Sutherland, Domingo or Horne and bringing magic and excitement back to opera. These new Operatic Superstars infuse youthful realism, gorgeous looks & ACTING into these classical works. Little wonder that Opera is having a renaissance, not only in its gilded houses but also at the Cinema, on Television & Radio, and Worldwide on the Internet.

Whether you are a newcomer to opera or an aficionado, this course will make you sing (or at least want to). Through multimedia presentations, we'll thrill to a myriad of the greatest Opera Stars today in their signature roles and discuss what makes them extraordinary. We'll discuss vocal Fachs from soubrette to basso profundo, what repertoire best suits a singer's voice, and why many risk it all to take on ever more demanding and challenging roles. In addition, from soprano to bass, we'll preview some of the most promising and exciting Opera Stars of Tomorrow, for whom you'll have the chance to vote for your favorites. And finally, to add a human touch, we'll consider what life must be like for those whose livelihood depends on two tiny, fragile muscles.

Prerequisite(s):

EXEDNC; ;

Instructor: Will Kent

Will Kent received his MD from George Washington University School of Medicine and completed his post graduate training in Pediatrics at McGill University & Harvard University. Will has been passionate about opera for 35 years. He just completed his 10th year teaching at Santa Rosa Junior College Community Education Program where his course A Passion for Opera regularly sells out. Visit Will at www.WillKentPresents.com

  • 6 mtgs: W, April 8-May 13, 3-5pm
  • Beger Center, Oakmont Village
  • EXEDNC; ;
  • class# 4229