PAR 4. Piano Accompaniment and Opera Coaching (pianists, training)

Period of the EOA module in 2024-2025:

ERASMUS students (STT) may choose a mobility of minimum 3 – maximum 6 months during the academic year 2024-2025

Content:

This module offers an entirely specific traineeship for piano accompaniment of voice and opera scenes, designed for pianists who consider a future in the world of opera by adding to their curriculum a first work experience in this various and challenging environment. Trainees will accompany singers on the piano in different settings:

  • singing lessons,
  • scenic interpretation lessons,
  • staging
  • preparation for exams and concerts and during public performances. This always under supervision of a tutor.

The goal is to improve the knowledge of opera repertoire and to practice the specific skills requested.

The trainee will receive weekly tasks from the coordinator of piano accompaniment.

A module for professional pianists who wish to broaden their knowledge of the operatic repertoire in compliance with all the specific attitudes. With a full immersion into Italian opera together with the opportunity to develop the best practice in Italian language applied to opera. To exercise, develop and improve their skills as a pianist in accompanying different voice parts.

Specialty of this module in comparison with other courses in Europe

A full immersion into Italian opera together with the opportunity to develop the best practice in Italian language applied to opera. Choice of repertoire (title and characters) according to student’s needs. Exchange and collaboration with other students of the Conservatory (from all over the world) working on the same repertoire.

A unique opportunity to fully immerse themselves in the rich operatic music culture of the territory, attending places of unique musical interest, within the Conservatory (Musical Section of Libreria Palatina, Boito’s Studio and Toscanini’s Studio) or the nearby of it (the Library of the Istituto Nazionale di Studi Verdiani, the Museo dell’Opera, the Casa della Musica etc).

Names of the professors of this module:

  • Nicola Mottaran (Coordinator of Piano accompaniment) Fabio Ferrucci (Tutor)
  • Teaching staff  (Piano Accompaniment Teachers)  from the Singing and Music Theatre Department of the Conservatory.

Possible extras in addition to this module:

Upon request a little tour of the main “music treasures” of Verdi’s land: the birthplace of Verdi and Villa Sant’Agata, the Toscanini Museum, the world-renowned Teatro Regio, the beautiful Teatro Farnese (17th century), the Casa del Suono, etc. Opportunity to join Italian Course level A2+B1 in the first semester or English Course level B1 or B2 in second semester. October is the month of the Parma Verdi Festival. Facilities are offered to enrolled students who want to experience a show at the Teatro Regio and/or other planned locations.

Minimum and maximum number of EOA students

1-5 (no max limit)

Number of teaching/production hours of the EOA module

  • Semester 200 hours (about 10 hours per week)

Number of ECTS within master accreditation

Depending on the effective number of hours.

Entrance examination:

Online examination through the Application, that needs to include

  • CV
  • Repertoire
  • Videos
  • Motivational letter (optional)

Final examination:

30-minute performance in piano accompaniment of voice (and/or opera scenes).

Teaching language/Required level of language

Italian (min A2 to be improved) and English (B2)

Total expenses of the EOA module per student and what is included/excluded in this price

Erasmus students (SMS) only. No extra fees.

Deadline for applications:

  • 1st deadline: 30 April 2024
  • 2nd deadline: 15 October 2025

Date for expected answers:

  • 1st deadline: 30 June 2024
  • 2nd deadline: 15 December 2025

LOD 1. Francesco Cavalli – L’egisto – Concert Performance

Period of the EOA module in 2024-2025:

  • Spring Semester 2025: March – May

Professional training and musical preparation of a role in Cavalli’s L’Egisto. An intensive period of training and rehearsing finalised with the public performance of a concert version of the opera.

This includes:

  • Vocal coaching / stylistic background (theory of the affects, parlar cantando and the beginnings of the art of bel canto, early Italian ornamentation)
  • Language coaching
  • Musical rehearsals with the conductor/harpsichordist and orchestra

Final performance with the conductor and orchestra.

Names of the professors of this module:

  • Liliana Stawarz (Polish Royal Opera) – conductor/musical direction/harpsichord/baroque coaching
  • Anna Werecka and Adam Kamieniecki – vocal and baroque coaching – theory of the affects and rhetoric, parlar cantando, ornamentation, vocal technique
  • Urszula Kryger, Bartosz Szulc – vocal technique

Possible extras besides the module:

  • Baroque Program – supplementary seminars devoted to Theory of the Affects and Ornamentation
  • All concerts and events produced by University of Music in Lodz (free admission for EOA students)
  • Participation in selected concerts and activities of Vocal Department (upon your choice)

Minimum and maximum number of students:

1 – 12 max

Kind of voice and role:

  • Tenor – Egisto
  • Tenor – Hipparco
  • Soprano – Climene
  • Soprano – Clori
  • Soprano – L’Aurora/Amore/Ora prima
  • Soprano – Bellezza/Semele/Ora seconda
  • Soprano – Voluptia/Fedra/Ora terza
  • Soprano – Venere/Hero/Ora quarta
  • Mezzosoprano – Dema
  • Mezzosoprano – La Notte/Didone
  • Bass – Lidio
  • Bass – Apollo

Specialty of this module in comparison with other courses in Europe

  • The module gives the possibility of acquiring specialized training in the area of early baroque music.

Possible extras besides the module:

  • Baroque Program – supplementary seminars devoted to Theory of the Affects and Ornamentation
  • All concerts and events produced by the University of Music in Łódź (free admission for EOA students)
  • Participation in selected concerts and activities of Vocal Department (upon your choice)

Description of the final examination

  • Public performance of opera fragment/s

Number of teaching / Production hours

From 20 – 30 hours per week

Teaching:

  • Working with the vocal coaches
  • Working with the conductor

Production:

  • Ensemble rehearsals with singers and the conductor
  • Ensemble rehearsals with singers, the conductor and full orchestra
  • Final performances

Number of ECTS:

25 ECTS

Entrance examination:

Contact the coordinator:

Anna Werecka

anna.werecka-gryc@amuz.lodz.pl 

The following attachments shall be submitted with the application:

  • CV
  • Repertoire list
  • Two videos (for example via YouTube)
  • Repertoire for the application:
  1. one fragment of Cavalli’s Egisto or any piece from the early 17th century (Caccini, Monteverdi etc.)
  2. one aria upon your choice.

Description of the final Examination

Public performance of a concert version of the opera at the Concert Hall of the University of Music in Łódź.

Student: 

Singer

Language: 

English, Italia

Activity:

Training / Operatic practice / Performance

Total expenses of the EOA module per student and what is included/excluded in this price

  • Module is available within an Erasmus exchange.

Note! Please, contact your Erasmus office as early as possible to be qualified in time for the Erasmus scholarship. All qualified Erasmus candidates must be first nominated by the Erasmus office of the sending institution – international@amuz.lodz.pl

  • Module could be also available as postgraduate studies. The fee is then approx. 2000 EUR (travel and living costs not included).

Deadline for applications

  • 1st deadline: 30 May 2024
  • 2nd deadline: N/A

Date for expected answers

  • 1st deadline: 30 June 2024
  • 2nd deadline: N/A

FLO 1. A room with a view on the Italian Belcanto

Period of the EOA module in 2024-2025:

  • 01 February 2025 – 04 May 2025 (TBC)

Meet the Italian Belcanto tradition in the town that hosted the first operatic creation. An all-Italian experience on the operatic repertoire from Baroque to Verdi and Puccini. Voice lessons on style and technique, repertoire study with vocal coaches, Italian language and diction class, Opera class with acting and staging seminars, final concert with semi-staged performance of full operatic scenes.

Study repertoire:

  1. One leading role from an Opera in Italian
  2. A group of 3-4 arias in Italian, including recitativos and/or cabalettas if present and full scenes and ensembles from operas

Participants:

All voice types

Specialty of this module in comparison with other courses in Europe

We give the participants the possibility to develop their skills in the Italian language and diction in a very practical approach. We will concentrate on interpretation and performance of the most important Italian belcanto styles, from the early baroque “recitar-cantando”, the classic recitativo secco, accompagnato and virtuoso arias, to the Romantic “solita scena” (scena, aria and cabaletta) until the declamatory style of the late XIX composers (Verismo), depending on each singers vocal and musical needs. Our teachers and coaches have a long experience in the tuition of international students, as in our Vocal studies Faculty more than 50% of singers are from all the continents. Being in Firenze (Dante’s home town) allows you to absorb the good “reference” Italian diction directly from the people you will meet in the street, as the Florentine language is the basis of the modern Italian language.

Additionally, a production on stage (with piano and/or small instrumental ensemble accompaniment) of MOZART’s Don Giovanni at Villa Favard di Rovezzano (Firenze), at the end of April 2025, with the participation of the EOA students as either soloist or choir (singers). Please, if you interested to participate, send the link of a video performance of at least one Mozart aria in Italian. We will award extra 6ECTS to participants.

Names of the professors

  • Voice teachers: Ester Castriota, Donatella Debolini, Gianni Fabbrini, Nemi Bertagni, M. Constanza Nocentini, Roberta Invernizzi
  • Repertoire coaches: Antonella Bellettini, Ulla Casalini, Anna Toccafondi, Elisabetta Sepe, Andrea Severi, Daniela Freschi
  • Opera class / Acting: Francesco Torrigiani
  • Italian Diction: Francesco Torrigiani, Leonardo De Lisi
  • History of Opera: Guglielmo Pianigiani
  • Barroque vocal ensemble: Santina Tomasello
  • Chamber music & vocal ensembles: Leonardo De Lisi

Possible extras:

Masterclass with renowned singers and opera directors.

Free entrance to rehearsals at Teatro del Maggio Musicale Fiorentino.

A short programme (incl. city tour) concentrating on special ‘musical’ aspects of the city: Palazzo Pitti (where the first opera ever was staged in 1600, Peri’s “L’Euridice”), Accademia Bartolomeo Cristofori (historic pianos), Museo degli Uffizi, Galleria dell’Accademia, etc.

Minimum and maximum number of EOA students:

4/12

Number of teaching / production hours:

Up to 20 hours/week

Number of ECTS within master:

3 months Module will award 24 ECTS

  • “Voice lessons 1-to-1” lessons, 6 ECTS
  • “Repertoire coaching with pianist” 1-to-1 lessons, 3 ECTS
  • “Opera class” (opera scenes staging) 3 ECTS
  • “Italian Diction for singers” lecture 3 ECTS
  • “History of Opera” 3 ECTS
  • “Chamber music & vocal ensemble” group, 3 ECTS
  • “Baroque vocal ensemble” group, 3 ECTS

ONLY Erasmus mobilities for Studies or Traineeship from EOA partners will be accepted

Entrance examination:

Before 08 May 2024, by email erasmus@consfi.it only:

  • Please, send a link to a recent performance of yours (from not more than 1 year ago) including at least:
      • 2 operatic arias/scenes in Italian from Baroque to Puccini (it also includes concert arias in Italian)
  • A brief curriculum and a complete list of studied (or performed) vocal repertoire / roles in Italian (only word or pdf file, please, or link to personal artistic website)

Description of the final Examination:

  • Module: Semi-staged operatic scenes and recital with arias/songs in public concerts at the end of the module
  • Erasmus mobility : each class will award a note of evaluation by the teacher and ECTs

Teaching language/ Required level of language:

  • Italian (main)
  • English (secondary)
  • We require that EOA students have a minimum B1 Italian language level.

Total expenses of the EOA module per student and what is included / excluded in this price:

Erasmus mobility: no tuition fee

ONLY Erasmus mobilities for studies or traineeship from EOA partners will be accepted

Contact person:

Prof. Leonardo De Lisi

e-mail: erasmus@consfi.it

FLO 2. The Maestro Collaboratore (Vocal coach)

Period of the EOA module in 2024-2025:

  • 01 February 2025 – 04 May 2025

Meet the Italian Belcanto tradition in the town that hosted the first operatic creation. An all-Italian experience on the operatic repertoire from Baroque to Verdi and Puccini. Piano accompanying lesson on style and technique, repertoire study with vocal coaches, Italian language and diction class, Opera class with acting and staging seminars, final concert with semi-staged performance of full operatic scenes.

Study repertoire:

  1. Two Opera vocal scores in Italian, from Mozart to Puccini
  2. A group arias in Italian, including recitativos and/or cabalettas, if present
  3. A group of Italian Art songs

Participants:

Pianist / vocal coach

Specialty of this module in comparison with other courses in Europe:

We give the participants the possibility to develop their skills as a vocal coach (maestro collaboratore). Our teachers and coaches have a long experience in the tuition of international students, as in our Vocal studies Faculty more than 50% of students are from all the continents. Being in Firenze (Dante’s home town) allows you to absorb the good “reference” Italian diction directly from the people you will meet in the street, as the Florentine language is the basis of the modern Italian language.

Name(s) of the professor(s):

  • Piano and Vocal Coaching Teachers: Andrea Severi, Antonella Bellettini, Ulla Casalini, Anna Toccafondi, Elisabetta Sepe, Daniela Freschi, Marco Bargagna, Elisabetta Sepe
  • History of Opera: Guglielmo Pianigiani
  • Art song practise/ Italian diction for coaches: Leonardo De Lisi

Possible extras:

  • Masterclass with renown singers and opera
  • Free entrance to rehearsals at Teatro del Maggio Musicale
  • A short programme (incl. city tour) concentrating on special ‘musical’ aspects of the city: Palazzo Pitti (where the first opera ever was staged in 1600, Peri’s “L’Euridice”), Accademia Bartolomeo Cristofori (historic pianos), Museo degli Uffizi, Galleria dell’Accademia,

Minimum and maximum number of EOA students:

1/6

Number of teaching / production hours:

Up to 20 hours/week

Number of ECTS within master:

3 months Module will award 24 ECTS

  • “Piano accompaniment lessons” 1-to-1 6 ECTS
  • “Repertoire practice lessons” 1-to1 3 ECTS
  • “Conducting techniques for opera coaches” 3 ECTS
  • “Italian Diction for singers/coaches” 3 ECTS
  • “History of Opera” 3 ECTS
  • “Art song practise” 6 ECTS

ONLY Erasmus mobilities for Studies or Traineeship from EOA partners will be accepted

Entrance examination:

Before 08 May, 2024, by email erasmus@consfi.it only:

  1. Please, send a link to a recent performance of yours (from not more than 1 year ago) including at least:
  • ONE piano solo piece of free choice or TWO Lieder (or Art Songs) accompanying a singer
  • ONE operatic aria or scene, accompanying a singer
  1. A brief curriculum and a complete list of studied operatic vocal score in Italian (only word or pdf file, please, or link to personal artistic website)

By May 15, 2024, candidates will receive a response about selection. If successfully selected, students will be required to confirm their choice before June 30.

Description of the final Examination:

  • Module: Semi-staged operatic scenes and recital with arias/songs in public concerts at the end of the module
  • Erasmus mobility : each class will award a note of evaluation by the teacher and ECTs

Teaching language/ Required level of language:

  • Italian (main)
  • English (secondary)
  • We require that EOA students have a minimum B1 Italian language level.

Total expenses of the EOA module per student and what is included / excluded in this price:

Erasmus mobility: no tuition fee

ONLY Erasmus mobilities for studies or traineeship from EOA partners will be accepted

Contact person:

Prof. Leonardo De Lisi

e-mail: erasmus@consfi.it

VAL 2. Performance of an operatic role in a fully staged opera production

(Title to be announced)

Period of the EOA module in 2024-2025:

  • From 08 January 2025 to 14 April 2025 (Easter holidays from 29 March to 08 April 2025)

Description of the EOA module:

Professional training and preparation for an opera role, concluding with the performance of a fully staged opera production (title to be announced).

This includes:

  • Singing lessons
  • Repertoire lessons
  • Acting
  • Language coaching
  • Musical rehearsals with the conductor, pianists and the orchestra.
  • Stage rehearsals with the stage director, the conductor and the pianists.

In order to study the specific roles of the production.

Kind of voice and role (Title and roles to be announced):

  • Tenor
  • Baritone
  • Bass

Speciality of this module in comparison with other courses:

Valencia is a major cultural centre and encourages immersion into the professional opera and music scene:  Palau de les Arts Opera House, concerts and presentations by major international musicians.

In addition, there are many events and festivals throughout the year (i.e. Las Fallas). With a rich history in modern architectural masterpieces (City of Arts and Sciences), Valencia’s deep, multicultural roots, cosmopolitan flavor, and warm climate to make it a true Mediterranean gem.

Also, Valencia is one of Spain’s (and Europe’s) most affordable cities for student accommodation.

Names of the professors of this module:

  • Singing: Gloria Fabuel, Carlos López Galarza, Pilar Moral, Amparo Quevedo, Ofelia Sala, Charo Vallés
  • Opera coaches: Carles Budó, Francesc Gamón, Pablo García-Berlanga, Adrià Gràcia, Diego Sánchez, Miquel Carbonell,
  • Conductor: Juan Pablo Hellín
  • Stage director: Jaume Martorell, Araceli Bergillos

Possible extras besides the module

  • Masterclasses
  • Concerts at different venues in Valencia
  • Opera sofa: Performance of opera highlights
  • Attending opera performances at Palau de les Arts
  • Exchange and collaborate with other students of the Conservatory working on the same production.

Minimum and maximum number of EOA students

  • Minimum 1 student
  • Maximum 3 students

Number of teaching/production hours of the EOA module:

Teaching: The first 8 weeks

  • Working with the singing teachers
  • Working with the opera coaches
  • Working with the conductor and vocal coaches
  • Working with the stage director and vocal coaches

Production: The following 4 weeks

  • Ensemble rehearsals with the singers and conductor
  • Ensemble rehearsals with the singers and stage director

Number of ECTS within master accreditation:

25 ECTS

Entrance examination:

Contact the coordinator:

Charo Vallés

master.opera@csmvalencia.es

The materials to submit with your application are:

  • CV
  • Repertoire
  • Two Videos (it can be a link to YouTube or any other platform)

Deadline:

  • 1st deadline: 01 June 2024
  • 2nd deadline: 15 September 2025

Date for expected answers:

  • 1st deadline: 15 June 2024
  • 2nd deadline: 30 September 2024

Description of the final Examination:

Public performance of a fully staged chamber opera at the Concert Hall of the Conservatory Superior of Music

Teaching language:

Spanish, English, Italian, French and German

Total expenses of the EOA module per student and what is included/excluded in this price:

  • Free for students in Erasmus Programme
  • Module is available within an Erasmus exchange

VAL 1. Performance of an operatic role in a fully staged chamber opera production (Singers)

Title/s to be announced

Period of the EOA module in 2024 – 2025:

From 01 October 2023 to 22 December 2024

Description of the EOA module:

Professional training and preparation for an opera role, concluding with the performance of a fully staged chamber opera production (title to be announced).

This includes:

  • Singing lessons
  • Repertoire lessons
  • Acting
  • Language coaching
  • Musical rehearsals with the conductor, pianists and/or instrumental ensemble.
  • Stage rehearsals with the stage director, the conductor and the pianists.
  • Performance with piano accompaniment or instrumental ensemble

In order to study the specific roles of the production.

Kind of voice and role (Title and roles to be announced):

  • Tenor
  • Baritone
  • Bass

Speciality of this module in comparison with other courses:

Valencia is a major cultural centre and encourages immersion into the professional opera and music scene:  Palau de les Arts Opera House, concerts and presentations by major international musicians.

In addition, there are many events and festivals throughout the year (i.e. Las Fallas). With a rich history in modern architectural masterpieces (City of Arts and Sciences), Valencia’s deep, multicultural roots, cosmopolitan flavor, and warm climate to make it a true Mediterranean gem.

Also, Valencia is one of Spain’s (and Europe’s) most affordable cities for student accommodation.

Names of the professors of this module:

  • Singing: Gloria Fabuel, Carlos López Galarza, Pilar Moral, Amparo Quevedo, Ofelia Sala, Charo Vallés
  • Opera coaches: Carles Budó, Francesc Gamón, Pablo García-Berlanga, Adrià Gràcia, Diego Sánchez, Miquel Carbonell,
  • Conductor: Juan Pablo Hellín
  • Stage director: Jaume Martorell, Araceli Bergillos

Possible extras besides the module:

  • Masterclasses
  • Concerts at different venues in Valencia
  • Attending opera performances at Palau de les Arts
  • Exchange and collaboration with other students of the Conservatory working on the same production

Minimum and maximum number of EOA students

  • Minimum 1 student
  • Maximum 3 students

Number of teaching/production hours of the EOA module:

Teaching: The first 8 weeks

  • Working with the singing teachers
  • Working with the opera coaches
  • Working with the conductor and vocal coaches
  • Working with the stage director and vocal coaches

Production: The following 4 weeks

  • Ensemble rehearsals with the singers and conductor
  • Ensemble rehearsals with the singers and stage director

Number of ECTS within master accreditation:

25 ECTS

Entrance examination:

Contact the coordinator:

Charo Vallés

master.opera@csmvalencia.es

The materials to submit with your application are:

  • CV
  • Repertoire
  • Two Videos (it can be a link to YouTube or any other platform)

Deadline:

  • First: 01 June 2024
  • Second: 01 September 2024

Date for expected answers:

  • 1st deadline: 15 June 2024
  • 2nd deadline: 15 September 2024

Description of the final Examination:

  • Public performance
  • Permanent Artistic Evaluation

Teaching language:

Spanish, English, Italian, French and German

Total expenses of the EOA module per student and what is included/excluded in this price:

  • Free for students in Erasmus Programme
  • Module is available within an Erasmus exchange

PAR 3. Piano Accompaniment in Opera (Pianists, Traineeship for pianists)

Period of the EOA module in 2024 – 2025:

ERASMUS students (STT) may choose mobility within one or two semesters in 2024-2025: 

  • Winter Semester: 1 October 2024 – 2nd week of February 2025
  • Spring Semester: 3rd week of February 2025 – 30 June 2025

Content:

This module guides the student to master the complex and difficult art of the piano accompaniment in opera.

  • Performance practice and repertoire (individual lessons, on specific operas according to student’s needs and choices, main opera repertoire, analysis, study and practice on chosen opera scores, different (vocal) accompaniment techniques according to different music styles)
  • Répétiteur and coach techniques (theoretical and practical lessons on the basso continuo, as a stage-rehearsal accompanist, how to play under direction)
  • Specialized practice (vocal repertoire: chamber music and opera scores)
  • Score playing (reading piano- and orchestra opera scores)
  • Little practical internship in Singing lessons and Scenic Art lessons (different needs, different skills)
  • Possible participation in Masterclass(es), essays and concerts as a piano accompanist.

Classes will be held in Italian and English.

ERASMUS students might have to choose other courses among those annually proposed by the Conservatory, to reach the total number of required credits.

Specialty of this module in comparison with other courses in Europe

This module represents a perfect opportunity to get to know and experience the tools to become an Opera accompanist, in a welcoming atmosphere of exchange and collaboration with the other students of the Conservatory, from all over the world.

A unique chance to fully immerse themselves in the rich operatic music culture of the territory, attending places of unique musical interest, within the Conservatory (Musical Section of Libreria Palatina, Boito’s Studio and Toscanini’s Studio) or in the immediate nearby of it (the Library of the Istituto Nazionale di Studi Verdiani, specialized in 19th century opera and music in general, with particular emphasis on the life and work of Giuseppe Verdi, the Museo dell’Opera, the Casa della Musica, Teatro Regio, etc).

Name(s) of the professor(s) of this module:

  • Nicola Mottaran (Coordinator of Piano accompaniment)
  • Fabio Ferrucci (Tutor)
  • Teaching staff  (Piano Accompaniment Teachers)  from the Singing and Music Theatre Department of the Conservatory.

Possible extras in addition to this module:

Upon request a little tour of the main “music treasures” of Verdi’s land: the birthplace of Verdi and Villa Sant’Agata, the Toscanini Museum, the worldrenowned Teatro Regio, the beautiful Teatro Farnese (17th century), the Casa del Suono, etc. Opportunity to join Italian Course lev. A2+B1 in the first semester or English Course level B1 or B2 in second semester. October is the month of the Parma Verdi Festival. Facilities are offered to enrolled students who want to experience a show at the Teatro Regio and/or other planned locations.

Minimum and maximum number of EOA students

2 piano students

Number of teaching/production hours of the EOA module

  • 60 teaching hours per semester

Number of ECTS within master accreditation

Min 24 ECTS/semester (but possibly increasing according to the Learning Agreement)

Entrance examination:

Online examination through the Application, which needs to include

  • CV
  • Repertoire
  • Videos
  • Motivational letter (optional)

Final examination:

30-minute performance in piano accompaniment of voice (and/or opera scenes) 

Teaching language/Required level of language

Italian (min A2 to be improved) and English (B2)

Total expenses of the EOA module per student and what is included/excluded in this price

Erasmus students (SMS) only. No extra fees.

Deadline for applications:

  • 1st deadline: 08 May 2024
  • 2nd deadline: 15 October 2024

Date for expected answers:

  • 1st deadline: 30 June 2024
  • 2nd deadline: 15 December 2024

PAR 2. Opera buffa in the 18th Century (singers)

Period of the EOA module in 2024-2025:

ERASMUS students (SMS and STT) may choose a mobility within one semester (or both)

  • Winter Semester: 1 October 2024 – 2nd week of February 2025
  • Spring Semester: 3rd week of February 2025- 30 of June 2025

Description of the EOA Module

This module guides the student through a path of vocal and scenic interpretation of one or more scenes from eighteenth-century Opera Buffa’s repertoire: Pergolesi, Cimarosa, Paisiello or Rossini (preferably his “Farces in one act”)

  • Analysis, study and full understanding of the libretto(s) and character(s) chosen. 
  • Vocal technique and style coaching in Opera Buffa repertoire. 
  • Advanced Italian pronunciation and diction classes. 
  • Specific lessons on Recitativo. 
  • Individual coaching and group work: vocal and score lessons and group work on Scenic Art (Training of the actor’s body, physical and gestural laboratory). 
  • Preparation for final exam and concert(s).

Classes will be held in Italian and English.

ERASMUS students have to choose other courses (e.g. Opera History, Poetic and Dramatic Literature, etc.) among those annually proposed by the Conservatory, to reach the total number of required credits.

Special attention will be given to the study of proper Italian diction and pronunciation with native Italian teachers, in building the chosen Opera Buffa character (both scenic and vocal) with full linguistic and stylistic background. Special focus on Recitativo.

Kind of voice and role

All kind of voices suited for Opera Buffa repertoire.

Specialty of this module in comparison with other courses in Europe

A full immersion into Italian opera together with the opportunity to develop the best practice in Italian language applied to opera. Choice of repertoire (title and characters) according to student’s needs. Exchange and collaboration with other students of the Conservatory (from all over the world) working on the same repertoire.

 A unique opportunity to fully immerse themselves in the rich operatic music culture of the territory, attending places of unique musical interest, within the Conservatory (Musical Section of Libreria Palatina, Boito’s Studio and Toscanini’s Studio) or in the immediate nearby of it (the Library of the Istituto Nazionale di Studi Verdiani, the Museo dell’Opera, the Casa della Musica etc).

Possible extras in addition to this module:

Upon request a little tour of the main “music treasures” of Verdi’s land: the birthplace of Verdi and Villa Sant’Agata, the Toscanini Museum, the worldrenowned Teatro Regio, the beautiful Teatro Farnese (17th century), the Casa del Suono, etc. Opportunity to join English Course level B1 or B2 in second semester. 

Open for:

Max 5

Name(s) of the professor(s) of this module:

  • Romano Franceschetto, Lucetta Bizzi and Teaching staff (Vocal coach) from the Singing and Music Theatre Department of the Conservatory
  • Roberta Faroldi (diction and actor’s work)
  • Riccardo Mascia (Recitativo coach, Score and Repertoire)
  • Claudia Rondelli, Roberta Ropa, Laura Soracco, Luca Sabatino (Score and Repertoire)

Description of final examination:

Performance    of    an    operatic    full    Opera Buffa   scene    in    front    of    a    jury.    The examination may coincide with a public concert.

Number of teaching / teaching hours

60h of teaching (individual lessons + group lessons) per semester

Number of ECTS within master accreditation

Min 24 ECTS/semester (but possibly increasing according to the Learning Agreement).

Entrance examination

Online examination through the Application, that needs to include:

  • CV
  • Repertoire
  • Videos
  • Motivational letter (optional)

Teaching language/Required level of language

Italian (min A2 to be improved) and English (B2).

Total expenses of the EOA module per student and what is included/excluded in this price

Erasmus students (SMS) only. No extra fees.

Deadline for applications

  • 1st deadline: 30 April 2024
  • 2nd deadline: 15 October 2024

Date for expected answers

  • 1st deadline: 30 June 2024
  • 2nd deadline: 15 December 2024

PAR 1. Giuseppe Verdi: Vocal and Acting interpretation in Verdi’s operas

Period of the EOA module in 2024-2025

ERASMUS students (SMS and STT) may choose a mobility within one semester (or both)

  • Winter Semester: 1 October 2024 – 2nd week of February 2025
  • Spring Semester: 3rd week of February 2024- 30 of June 2025

Description

This module guides the student through a path of vocal and scenic interpretation of one or more scenes from Verdi’s operas. They are planned as follows:

  • Analysis, study and full understanding of Verdi’s libretto(s) and character(s) chosen.
  • Vocal technique and style coaching in Verdi’s repertoire.
  • Advanced Italian pronunciation and diction classes.
  • Individual coaching and group work: vocal and score lessons, and group work on Scenic Art (Training of the actor’s body, physical and gestural laboratory).
  • Preparation for final exam and concert(s). Classes will be held in Italian and English.

ERASMUS SMS students have to choose other courses (e.g. Poetry for music and dramaturgy, Opera History etc.) among those annually proposed by the Conservatory, to reach the total number of required credits and complete the Learning Agreement.

Specialty of this module in comparison with other courses in Europe

Special attention will be given to the study of proper Italian diction and pronunciation with native Italian teachers, in building the chosen Verdi’s character (both scenic and vocal) with full linguistic and stylistic background. Choice of repertoire according to student’s needs. Possible exchange and collaboration with other students of the Conservatory working on the same repertoire. A unique opportunity to fully immerse themselves in the rich operatic music culture of the territory, attending places of unique musical interest, within the Conservatory (Musical Section of Libreria Palatina, Boito’s Studio and Toscanini’s Studio) or in the immediate nearby of it (the Library of the Istituto Nazionale di Studi Verdiani, specialized in 19th-century opera and music in general, with particular emphasis on the life and work of Giuseppe Verdi, the Museo dell’Opera, the Casa della Musica etc.).

Kind of voice and role

All kind of roles, suited to Verdi repertoire

Name(s) of the professor(s) of this module:

  • Donatella Saccardi, Lucetta Bizzi, Claudia Marchi and Teaching staff (Vocal coach) from the Singing and Music Theatre Department of the Conservatory 
  • Roberta Faroldi (diction and actor’s work)
  • Claudia Rondelli, Roberta Ropa, Laura Soracco, Luca Sabatino (Score and Repertoire).

    Possible extras in addition to this module:

    Upon request a little tour of the main “music treasures” of Verdi’s land: the birthplace of Verdi and Villa Sant’Agata, the Toscanini Museum, the world renowned Teatro Regio, the beautiful Teatro Farnese (17th century), the Casa del Suono, etc. Opportunity to join Italian Course level A2+B1 in the first semester or English Course level B1 or B2 in second semester. October is the month of the Parma Verdi Festival. Facilities are offered to enrolled students who want to experience a show at the Teatro Regio and/or other planned locations.

    Open for:

    Max 2

    Number of teaching/production hours of the EOA module

    60 hours of teaching (individual lessons + group lessons) per semester

    Number of ECTS within master accreditation: depending to the effective number of hours done

    Entrance examination:

    Online examination through the Application, that needs to include:

    • CV
    • Repertoire
    • Videos: AT LEAST ONE VERDI!
    • Motivational letter (optional)

    Description of final examination:

    Performance    of    an    operatic    full    Verdi    scene in front    of    a    jury.    The examination may coincide with a public concert.

    Teaching language/Required level of language

    Italian (min A2 to be improved) and English (B2).

    Total expenses of the EOA module per student and what is included/excluded in this price

    Erasmus students (STT) only. No extra fees.

    Deadline for applications:

    • 1st deadline: 30 April 2024
    • 2nd deadline: 15 October 2024 

    Date for expected answers:

    • 1st deadline: 30 June 2024
    • 2nd deadline: 15 December 2024

    LOD 2. Francesco Cavalli – “L’egisto” – Performance of a role in fully staged opera production

    Period of the EOA module in 2025-2026:

    Autumn Semester 2025: October – November 2025

    NOTE: This module is a continuation of LOD 1, and it is planned to happen in the first semester of the academic year 2025-2026. Check with your International Officer whether you will be eligible for Erasmus Grants in the academic year 2025-2026.

    Description of the module:

    Perform a role in a fully staged opera production “L’Egisto” by Francesco Cavalli. Professional training and preparations finalised with complete public performance with orchestra. Considering a short time of training we prefer students with high awarness of a baroque style and very good knowledge of musical material.

    This includes:

    • Vocal coaching (theory of the affects, rhetoric, parlar cantando, performance practices of 17th century, early Italian ornamentation)
    • Acting
    • Language coaching
    • Musical rehearsals with the conductor/harpsichordist and orchestra
    • Stage rehearsals with the stage director.

    Kind of voice and role:

    • Tenor – Egisto
    • Tenor – Hipparco
    • Soprano – Climene
    • Soprano – Clori
    • Soprano –  L’Aurora/Amore/Ora prima
    • Soprano – Bellezza/Semele/Ora seconda
    • Soprano – Voluptia/Fedra/Ora terza
    • Soprano – Venere/Hero/Ora quarta
    • Mezzosoprano – Dema
    • Mezzosoprano – La Notte/Didone
    • Bass – Lidio
    • Bass – Apollo

    Specialty of this module in comparison with other courses in Europe

    • The module gives the possibility of acquiring specialized training in the area of early baroque music.

    Possible extras beside the module:

    • Baroque Program – supplementary seminars devoted to Theory of the Affects and Ornamentation
    • All concerts and events produced by University of Music in Lodz (free admission for EOA students)
    • Participation in selected concerts and activities of Vocal Department (upon your choice) 

    Number of teaching / production hours of the EOA module:

    From 20-40 hours of production rehearsals per week

    Teaching:

    • Working with the vocal coaches
    • Working with the conductor
    • Working with the stage director

    Production:

    • Ensemble rehearsals with singers and the conductor
    • Ensemble rehearsals with singers and the stage director

    Ensemble rehearsals with singers, orchestra, the conductor and the stage director

    Number of ECTS:

    25 ECTS

    Minimum and maximum number of students:

    1 – 12  max

    Entrance examination:

    Contact the coordinator:

    Anna Werecka

    anna.werecka-gryc@amuz.lodz.pl

    The following attachments shall be submitted with the application:

    • CV
    • Repertoire list
    • Two videos (for example via YouTube)
    • Repertoire for the application:
    1. one fragment of Cavalli’s Egisto or any piece from the early 17th century (Caccini, Monteverdi etc.)
    2. one aria upon your choice.

    Description of the final Examination

    Public performance of a fully staged opera at the Concert Hall of the University of Music in Łódź. The premiere and the following performances will take place during the renowned AŻ Festival. 

    Deadline for application and requirements:

    • 1st deadline: 30 April 2024
    • 2nd deadline 15 September 2024

    Date for expected answers:

    • 1st deadline: 15 May 2024
    • 2nd deadline: 30 September 2024

    Total expenses of the EOA module per student and what is included/excluded in this price

    • Module is available within an Erasmus exchange.

    Note! Please, contact your Erasmus office as early as possible in order to be qualified in time for Erasmus

    scholarship. All qualified Erasmus candidates must be first nominated by the Erasmus office of the sending institution – international@amuz.lodz.pl

    • Module could be also available as postgraduate studies. The fee is then approx. 2000 EUR (travel and living costs not included).

    Language: 

    English, Italian

    Activity: 

    Training / Operatic practice / Performance

    Module type: 

    Opera performance