Opera
is a form of theatre in which the drama is conveyed wholly or predominantly through
music and singing. Opera emerged in Italy around the year 1600 and is generally
associated with the Western classical music tradition. Opera uses many of the
elements of spoken theatre such as scenery, costumes, and acting. Generally, however,
opera is distinguished from other dramatic forms by the importance of song and
conventions of vocal technique. The singers are accompanied by a musical ensemble
ranging from a small instrumental ensemble to a full symphonic orchestra. Opera
may also incorporate dance; this was especially true of French opera for much
of its history.Comparable
art forms from various other parts of the world, many of them ancient in origin,
exist and are also sometimes called "opera" by analogy, usually prefaced
with an adjective indicating the region. These independent traditions are not
derivative of Western opera, but are rather distinct forms of musical theatre.
Opera is also not the only type of Western musical theatre: in the ancient world,
Greek drama featured singing and instrumental accompaniment; and in modern times,
other forms such as the musical have appeared. Opera
Music
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