Elementary & Middle School
Matinee Program
One of OperaSLO's primary goals is to "foster among youth an awareness, appreciation and enjoyment of opera." Our school children's matinee program is one of the ways we seek to fulfill that goal.
By attending a matinee of our mainstage performances, children learn what a production entails (sets, costumes, orchestra, dancers, singers, a chorus), and perhaps attend their first live performance in a center for the arts. Such visits often are the start of a lifelong interest in opera and music. We believe that our productions can serve as a wonderful gateway to the performing arts for the elementary school children in our area.
Prior to attending the opera, a music educator will visit each school to prepare the children. OperaSLO's primary objective is to get the students excited about the music and performance of opera. Additional objectives are: (1) to gain an understanding of what opera is — i.e. a story told through music; (2) to learn how designers, costumers and other production staff work with the artistic director to create a compelling production; (3) to demonstrate how moods and action are conveyed through the music; (4) to explain the story and give a sense of its historical context and (5) to introduce musical themes and rhythms so that the students recognize them at the performance (students will sing the themes).
When an opera is selected for production we evaluate whether it is suitable for children in grades 4-6. We then research funding opportunities from private foundations and our donor base. To date, OperaSLO has offered seven student matinees and has been able to secure funding from a variety of sources. In recent years, we have been able to secure funding to pay for student busing, and even partial attendance fees.
Children's Summer Opera Camp
Opera San Luis Obispo is pleased to offer a two-week fun and educational opera day camp for children ages 8-16. Camp runs annually the last 2 weeks of July. For details and registration, contact the office at 805.541.5369 or operaslo@sbcglobal.net
2012 Opera Camp materials are now available for download:
brochure
scholarship application
No experience is required, just a willingness to try! Children will learn the following from professionals in the vocal and performing arts:
- Correct vocal technique
- Drama and stage movement
- Ear training and musicianship
- Part singing and choral techniques
- Use of props, costumes & make-up
The camp will culminate in an evening performance before an audience of friends and family on the final Friday night of camp.
