Reflection of my thoughts on Opera and Werther

Before this class I had very little prior exposure to Opera. I used to believe that it was only for wealthy and elderly individuals. I also thought it would have been something that I wouldn’t be interested in. But, after being exposed to Opera and learning about it’s true meaning, I have developed an extreme appreciation to it. I won’t say that it something I am very passionate about, but I wouldn’t mind going to an Opera or listening to an Opera performances here and there. I really enjoy the emotion and thought that the artists place within each and every note that they sing.

When watching the live living room performance, my initial thoughts were that these individuals were extremely talented. These artists had faced the hard truth of not being able to preform, but they made the most out of their situation. They turned a bad situation into a beautiful one. They took that living room and made it theirs. They moved with such grace and really used their surroundings. Also, compared to the other version of Werther that we watched, I felt like they had a more modern touch to it. It could have been the setting, but it felt different. It felt different in the sense that I felt like I was able to relate to the performers more, it’s like I could feel more of their struggles, emotions and presence. I believe I really would have enjoyed seeing this preformed in person.

I personally believe that my understanding to Werther has gotten better and more in depth each time. My first impression when reading Werther was that I personally didn’t think that I would like it. I just thought it was going to be another bad ending love story, they’re pretty common. But, after the first time I saw it and really listened to the music as a whole I found a bit of beauty within the Opera and I felt more towards the story. I felt the tragedy and the sadness, but also the slight moments of happiness. When viewing the live performance I felt like I was another character within the Opera. It was like I was watching someone I know going through this struggle. My understanding was a lot deeper and clearer and I found a way to relate more and more each time.

The compassion and dedication that these artists show within their live performances have definitely allowed me to relate to them more. I think with the current situation that is happening right now that everyone has lost something and everyone is struggling in one way or another. These artists brought people together and showed some beauty during these hard times and I think this allowed me to get a deeper understanding because it made me feel more connected. I felt the pain and disappointment of the artists but also their determination to not let them stop doing what they love doing the most.

I really wish that we were able to watch this performance live at the MET Opera house. I think it would have been a once in a life time opportunity. But, I completely agree that they had made the correct decision for the safety of everyone.