Q What are Mini-Projects? Mini-projects are quick and easy projects that give you a chance to put learning into action. Objective: The purpose of this assignment is to introduce you to the elements of Peking Opera so you will be able to complete a cross cultural analysis of Beijing Opera and 18th Century Western Opera. Step 1: Peking Opera: Definition, Characteristics & Roles Read: A Brief Introduction to Beijing OperaLinks to an external site. Watch: "Peking Opera" (9:08) Step 2: An Overview of European Opera Read: The section on European opera in Resonances, pp. 86-104 Watch: "Opera History Documentary" (watch until 26:00) Step 3: The Castrati Click Here: Article "Castrati Singers: Surgery for Religion and Art" (18th Century Western Opera) Review this short article about Castrati, Italian opera singers and superstars of the 18th century. Step 4: The Assignment Using what you have learned from your readings, the lecture and this assignment page, analyze the following two musical selections, one from an 18th century western opera and the other from a Beijing opera production. You can do additional research if necessary. Refer to the Musical Analysis Writing Guide from last week to get ideas of what to listen for and how you could analyze each song. 1. WATCH and ACTIVELY LISTEN to Beijing opera performance of The Tale of the White Snake. Pay attention to song form, vocal technique, costumes, acting, staging, and instrumental accompaniment. 2. REVIEW and ACTIVELY LISTEN this selection from the movie Farinelli for song form, vocal technique, costumes, acting, staging, and instrumental accompaniment. This film offers a fictional depiction of the renowned Castrati Carlo Broschi (stage name: Farinelli) singing the aria "Lascia ch'io pianga" from Handel's opera Rinaldo (1711). 3. WRITE a one-page analysis of the similarities and differences between Beijing and 18th century opera. Choose 3 of the following questions to answer: 1. a. What are the similarities and differences between the vocal techniques in each tradition. b. Is there a similarity in the form and function of the two operas? For example, do they both have arias and choruses? Describe how they are similar and different. c. How is the costuming and staging similar or different? Provide details. d. Describe the performance style and instrumental accompaniment style used in both forms of opera. Provide details. e. How is the acting different or similar in both forms of opera? Provide details. You may choose one of three ways to present your findings: • o Written Report: Write a one-page analysis of your song. o Oral Report: Create a video discussing your findings - I suggest using notes as you speak. o Display: Create a PowerPoint or Google Slides presentation (make sure information is neatly organized for display!) You will submit your assignment on this page. Both text and digital files will be accepted. Questions? If you have any questions let me know. Select NEXT to go to the next page 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. Rubric Cross Cultural Analysis Cross Cultural Analysis Criteria Ratings Pts This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeCategorization Students create categories they will use to analyze two works from different cultures. 5 to >0.0 pts Full Marks 0 pts No Marks 5 pts This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeAnalysis Student completes an analysis of both works. 5 to >0.0 pts Full Marks 0 pts No Marks 5 pts This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeComparison Students compares both works with attention to cultural similarities and differences. 5 to >0.0 pts Full Marks 0 pts No Marks 5 pts This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeProduct Student chooses from three project options (written report, oral report or display) and completes a product to submit. 5 to >0.0 pts Full Marks 0 pts No Marks 5 pts This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeQuality of Work Written work: Attention to correct spelling and grammar. Typed double spaced. MLA format. Oral Report: Attention to correct pronunciation of musical terms and names. Presentation is organized. Display Report: Work is neatly done. Text is large enough to read clearly. Visual elements have clear resolution. 5 to >0.0 pts Full Marks 0 pts No Marks 5 pts Total Points: 25 PreviousNext