Stories from the Opera (for Children)

"Children need music! This anthology introduces them to opera in an unforgettable way." 

-Plácido Domingo

The quote above was written by Plácido Domingo, one of the most famous and most celbrated opera singers ever. Coincidentally, he also wrote the forewords to both books I read this month (I Never Walked Alone by Shirley Verret as well as Opera 101 by Fred Plotkin). Needless to say, this guy is a pretty big deal. He is completely correct in his words above, and they echo the sentiment of my project completely. 

This quote is on the book jacket of a book I bought at the Metropolitan Opera's gift shop. It is a book of operas written for children to understand and appreciate. It is full of gorgeous illustrations as well as subject matter with in the chosen operas pertaining to a child's realm of understanding and appreciation. I plan to bring it along with me for my next visits to schools so that I can not only sing songs from operas and explain the importance of classical music, but now I can read the actual stories from some operas that the children can appreciate on their comprehension level. 

I saw the Magic Flute when it came to Charleston during the Spoleto Festival two years ago, and I loved it. It is full of whimsy and child-like humor, while also exploring dark and intense sentiments by some of its characters. It is a great story to share with the children. 

Hansel and Gretel is another great story to share with them because it makes opera very relatable. most children know the familiar tale of Hansel and Gretel, but by reading them, i can show them that opera isn't boring; its familiar stories and themes, set to breath taking music. 

 The book also includes a list of the most famous opera houses in the world. This will show the kids of the breadth and international love and support of the art of opera. Many countries having live showings of performances from the Met and other opera houses of celebrity status. People attend them like attending the movie theater. 

The last pages of the book include background on the composers of the operas included in the book!