Lesson 5
Objectives: 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
- Hear and identify all major vocal ranges (voice types)
- Identify tools of the composer used to aid in dramatic impact
- Recognize recitative, aria, ensemble, chorus
- Write a plot for the final act of the opera with music underscoring
Materials
- Tape: Otello, Act III, scenes 5 through 9 (27.30-43:13)
- Copies of Master 8 and 9
- Classroom instruments as available
- Piano or other keyboard instrument
Procedures
I. Present a brief synopsis of the opera Otello. The synopsis presented here is incomplete because students will be invited to write their own final acts.
II. Using Master 8, read and discuss each character, referring to their voice types and ranges. Note that both Otello and Cassio are Tenors; although Cassio's voice is heard infrequently in this act, suggest that students try to compare the vocal qualities of both characters.
III. In Master 9, follow the music and action of the video.
- Read in your group the background and description of action described for each scene.
- Play each music example on a keyboard or other instrument, discuss the elements of rhythm and melodic contour, as well as functions of recitative, aria, ensembles, and chorus.
IV. Play the tape and listen to music and follow the action.
V. In your group ask and answer: "Would you have had a fairly good idea of the story by just listening to the music and observing the drama? Why? Did prior information of the story line aid understanding? How?"
VI. Play the video of the scenes from Otello for the second time. This time work in groups to list the following for each scene:
- The number of characters performing
- The tempo
- The dynamics
Synopsis
Otello is based on Shakespeare's Otello, with the text in Italian. The setting is a seaport in Cyprus at the end of the fifteenth century. Otello is a noble and victorious General married to and deeply in love with the gentle and kind desdemona. One of his officers, Iago, is angry with Otello because he promoted another officer, Cassio, to a rank above him. Consumed in hate and jealousy, lago plots to ruin both Otello and Cassio.
Using a lace handkerchief, which he has stolen from Desdemona, Iago convinces Otello that Desdemona has given this precious momento of Otello's love for her to Cassio. Around this handkerchief, he weaves a tale of suggestions and lies, convincing Otello the Desdemona and Cassio are romantically involved and have betrayed his trust.
Evaluation
Turn in two questions for the final "Opera Quiz."
