Understanding 18th-Century Opera: Handel and Mozart

Opera in the eighteenth century was a magnificent spectacle of drama, vocal virtuosity, and musical innovation. If you want to understand how this art form evolved from the elaborate Baroque style to the expressive Classical era, starting with the historical and structural fundamentals is essential. This text-only course guides you through the history, structure, and musical storytelling of 18th-century opera. You will learn to analyze key operatic forms and appreciate how composers used music to bring complex characters to life. What you'll learn: Understand the core differences between Baroque opera seria and Classical opera buffa; Analyze the structure of an opera, including the dramatic functions of recitative and aria; Explore Handel's Baroque masterpiece Giulio Cesare and its use of vocal ornamentation; Examine Mozart's Classical landmark Don Giovanni and its revolutionary blend of comedy and tragedy; Identify the historical and cultural contexts that shaped operatic production in the 1700s. We begin with foundational definitions of operatic terms and historical context before diving into structural readings of these masterpieces. Designed for beginners and music lovers, this course requires no prior knowledge of music theory or opera history. Begin your journey into the dramatic world of eighteenth-century opera today.