What is the difference between an opera and an operetta: a comparison of genres

The question of how the opera differs from the operetta is interesting in that it allows us to understand the features of these musical works. This topic can be cognitive for all music lovers who are interested in classical repertoire. In the article presented below, the main differences of one genre from another will be indicated, as well as the similarities between them. This topic can be relevant for the modern reader, because musical performances still collect a large audience and have a large number of fans around the world, including in our country.

Common features

Before answering the question about how the opera differs from the operetta, it is necessary to give a brief historical reference on the origin of these genres. The prototype of the opera was the Italian mysteries and pastors. In the 17th century, many composers began turning to the creation of large musical works with a complex structure and composition that led to the rapid development of opera art in the next century.

At the same time, in the framework of this genre, a comedic opera buffa was distinguished, which was distinguished by an easy humorous plot, the presence of spoken language, and also obligatory dance numbers at the end of the action. In the second half of the 19th century such performances began to be called an operetta, which from now on became an independent kind of art.

Comparison of compositions

When considering the features of these types of musical performances, first of all, it is necessary to pay attention to the plot. It is the analysis of compositions of works that makes it possible to determine the difference between an opera and an operetta.

The first is based on a complex dramatic story, the characters of which are characters with a complex and ambiguous character, which often determines the development of intrigue. This requires the composer of great skill in creating music, which should fully disclose the drama or even the tragedy of the characters. Operetta is a comedy story with an easy and simple plot, which is designed primarily to entertain the viewer. Her characters do not impress the listener with the depth of psychology or personal drama, but amuse and amuse him.

Music

From these features, and depend on the melodies of works that allow you to better understand how the opera differs from the operetta. In the first there are complex numbers: arias, cavantines, ballads, duets, trios, quartets, etc. An important role is played by the orchestra, which has an independent meaning, more fully revealing the main theme of the play. Small pauses are filled with uneasy recitations, which are spoken in a sing-song manner.

Important place is occupied by symphonic numbers: overtures, prologues, epilogues, which serve as an additional emotional load. In operetta melodies are simpler in sound: the parties of heroes are of a couplet-song character. Instead of musical recitatives, simple colloquial speech is introduced, which sounds in monologues, dialogues, and also replicas of characters.

Dancing

Based on the analysis of dance numbers, you can determine how the opera differs from the operetta. Briefly, the difference can be denoted by the following words: in the first performance only some fragments of the ballet can be present, as, for example, in the work "Ruslan and Lyudmila" by M. Glinka. The whole dance number can be seen only in operettas, as, for example, in Lehor's essay "The Merry Widow". Here it should be noted that the dance has for this performance of fundamental importance. They decided to finish the action, while in the opera it serves only as a choreographic background for the whole action, shading the main plot twist.

These features allow you to better understand the difference between an opera and an operetta. "What is the difference between these genres" is a question that, perhaps, will interest any music lover. After all, outwardly the performances are very similar to each other. They resonate in so many ways.

Comparison with musicals

This kind of representation arose in the 1930s on the American stage. He combines elements of vocals, choreography, dances, dialogues and witty remarks. At first glance, the genre is very similar to the vaudeville and the operetta. However, in it, singing is pop and is combined with entertainment and sophisticated dance numbers. Nevertheless, this kind of performance is not necessarily an entertaining show, it often touches on complex dramatic issues, which are portrayed in other ways.

In the musical, vocals, dances form a single whole. One can not be imagined apart from the other. In addition, these representations are a kind of mix: in them variety music is combined with classical fragments, symphonic numbers - with popular pop tunes. These features allow us to understand how the opera differs from the operetta and the musical. The latter kind of art is now very popular, especially in the USA, where such shows are an integral part of the stage art.