Student Projects


1			Opera in the Classic period took a decisive turn towards topics about real people and common problems rather than discussing Greek Gods, Goddesses, Nymphs and shepherds so common in opera of the earlier Baroque period. Compose an opera today. What is the story of your opera, which are the characters, where does it take place and what music will you use to make this work? Who is your target audience? What must your opera have musically to attract your target audience? By looking back at the history of music, you will discover many answers.




2			The term “child prodigy” is often associated with Mozart. What things must be present for a “prodigy” to exist in society? Incredible natural abilities are one element. What other things are needed for a Mozart like genius to exist and be recognized as such? Do we have anyone comparable in stature to a Mozart today? If not, why not?