Opera Courses

Christie’s Education is proud to have pioneered courses in opera appreciation for more than 25 years. Whether you are new to the world of opera or have a deep understanding of the subject, there will be something for everyone. Patrick Bade, a major collector of early opera recordings and a Senior Lecturer at Christie’s Education, lives and breathes opera and art and will enhance your understanding of opera regardless of the level of your existing knowledge.

Capitals of Culture

4 October - 8 November 2010

Ever wanted to know what it was like to live in New York in 1900, Chicago in the 1920s or Paris post World War II? With this six-week course you can explore these cities and investigate and appreciate the historical highlights of Barcelona, Prague and Munich.

Using a wealth of visual and sound documentation, the lectures will attempt to re-create as far as possible what it would be like to go back to these times and places in a time machine. Each week there will be an exploration of every aspect of high and low culture from theatre, opera and art exhibitions to eating shopping and popular entertainment.

Introduction to Opera

21 February - 28 March 2011

For many people opera is amongst the greatest and most intense pleasures that life has to offer. For others it is a dauntingly incomprehensible art form. In this course of six lectures, Patrick Bade aims to make the pleasures of opera more accessible. There are no special requirements if you wish to attend other than the ability to enjoy a good tune and the willingness to indulge in some healthy emotion.

With the aid of a wide range of historic and modern recordings and visual images, you will explore Italian, French, German and Russian opera and Patrick will explain the various categories of operatic voices.

Operas from the 2011 Summer Season

9 May - 20 June 2011

Whatever the weather, opera festivals have become one of the highlights of the British Summer. This course will introduce you to six operas that will be featured in the 2011 festivals at Glyndebourne and Holland Park. The lectures will aim to enhance your understanding of these operas and provide a basis for enhanced enjoyment of performances either in Summer 2011 or at other major productions.

Bookings

To book your place you can download a booking form here and email it to us at education@christies.com. Alternatively you can book your place over the phone by calling +44 20 7665 4350.