Opera is ALWAYS a Good Idea

• Britt Crowe
• Posted 8/29/24
• 0 comments

Suggested Grades: 3-5

National Core Arts Standards 

#1 — Generate and conceptualize artistic ideas and work. 
#2 — Performing on instruments, alone and with others, a varied repertoire of music.
#3 — Refine and complete artistic work.
#4 — Analyze, interpret, and select artistic work for presentation.
#5 — Develop and refine artistic work for presentation.
#6 — Convey meaning through the presentation of artistic work.
#7 — Perceive and analyze artistic work.
#8 — Interpret intent and meaning in artistic work.
#10 — Synthesize and relate knowledge and personal experiences to make art.

Objectives 

• Students will improvise and perform an original scene in a class opera, using their singing voices. 

Materials

• Playlist of songs that fit the theme of the opera (these will be the “arias”) 
• Imagination
• Props (not required) 

Students will work in small groups to design and perform an original opera scene based on a selected theme. This lesson emphasizes active participation allowing students to engage as they are comfortable. Plus, the outcome of the lesson allows for informal reflection and assessment. 

1. Present your students with a theme for the opera. You can choose one from a storybook, create one yourself, or brainstorm with the class. 
   • Theme Examples:
     • Things that aren’t good ideas (e.g., stealing, lying, cheating) 
     • Shoes (perfect if OFtY is performing Cinderella at your school) 
     • Hair (ideal for a year with The Barber of Seville) 

1. Divide the class into small groups (3-4 students each). Flexibility in group size is okay depending on class dynamics. 
2. Each group will create a short scene around the chosen theme. Inform the students they will perform their scene in front of the class but reassure them that participation is at their comfort level. 
   • Teacher Tip: Encourage participation in a way that feels playful and inclusive. Remind students that it’s perfectly fine to take on non-speaking roles, such as being a tree or a chair. Often, students who are initially hesitant end up being the stars of the show
3. Allow students approximately 5 minutes to organize and rehearse their scenes. Limiting preparation time helps maintain energy and keeps the activity within one class period. 

1. Once the preparation time is up, it’s time to perform! Arrange the groups in a specific order and post it on the board so students know when it’s their turn. 
2. The playlist of thematic songs serves as the “arias” in the opera. These songs cue the groups when to perform or return to their seats. Play each song for about 30-45 seconds, enough time for transitions.
   • Example Playlist for a Shoe-Themed Opera: 
     • “Blue Suede Shoes” by Elvis Presley: Sarah’s group 
     • “Diamonds on the Soles of Her Shoes” by Paul Simon: Patrick’s group 
     • “These Boots Are Made for Walking” by Nancy Sinatra: Evelyn’s group 
     • “Dancing Shoes” by Arctic Monkeys: Jamal’s group 
     • “New Shoes” by Paolo Nutini: Mya’s group 
3. Maintain silent transitions during the arias, and hold all applause until the end of all performances. 

Incorporating improvisation, opera, and literature into the music class is a wonderful way to engage students in creative expression and teamwork. This lesson plan celebrates both National Literacy Month and the joy of music education. Happy performing! 

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