Presenter: Claire Caldwell
Title: Opera in Context: An Illustrated Exploration
Abstract:
How did opera become one of the world’s most powerful combinations of music, theatre and storytelling?
This session presents an illustrated overview of the development of opera, interwoven with live vocal performances that bring key moments in its history to life. Led by Claire Caldwell and featuring university-level singers, the session examines the evolution of operatic style, repertoire, and performance practice. Accessible and engaging, the presentation offers audiences an opportunity to deepen their understanding of opera through both performance and commentary, with optional moments of interaction to enhance the experience.
Key Takeaways:
- Understand how opera evolved: Explore the major shifts in operatic style, repertoire and performance practice, and how these changes reflected the societies and cultures around them.
- Experience the history through live performance: Hear key moments brought to life by university-level singers, helping connect the historical context with the emotional and dramatic power of the music.
Date:
This World of Music Workshop will run on Wednesday 14th October from 10:00 am - 12:00 pm.
Venue:
We're pleased to be hosting this workshop at Symphonia Hall, an intimate performance venue in the heart of Auckland. With its exceptional acoustics and welcoming atmosphere, it provides a wonderful setting for music, creativity and shared learning.
About the expert
Claire Caldwell
Claire Caldwell is a music educator, choral director, and founder of Musicatalyst, an initiative dedicated to transforming lives through music. Formerly the Performing Arts Manager and Director of Choral Music at Dilworth School, Claire spent many years leading its vocal programme and shaping the internationally recognised choir Fortissimo. Under her direction, the choir became known for its powerful performances of works in Te Reo Māori, as well as innovative medleys in Pasifika languages—championing cultural storytelling through music on a global stage.
Passionate about helping individuals unlock their potential, Claire’s work focuses on embracing vulnerability as a pathway to growth—whether guiding non-singers to find their voice or supporting experienced performers to strengthen their craft. In addition to her education work, she has toured extensively with the multi-award-winning operatic trio Sol3 Mio as an accompanist and served as Musical Director for their concert DVD Ladies and Gentlemen – Sol3 Mio in Concert, bringing her expertise to audiences across New Zealand and beyond.
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