| Description |
During the summer of 2012, I spent five weeks in Italy studying opera. That experience changed my life, but it also started me on a path of discovery and growth. When I returned I was filled with a desire to continue the trajectory of learning that had been set during those weeks. Through the Honors College, I created a class in which I have continued to educate myself in Italian language, culture, and opera, as well as acting and creativity. Many of the topics I studied extend the curricular offerings of my degree program. Consequently, I have been able to learn things I would not have encountered otherwise. Through this class and my time in Italy, I have unlocked a part of myself and my voice that is completely new. This process has also provided me with tools and greater insight to research and perform my senior recital. With this emphasis on Italian culture, I will focus on the Italian pieces of my recital. To offer a proper presentation at the recital, I have researched the composer, history, translations, pronunciations, and performance traditions of each piece. With this thesis, I will explore what I learned in Italy and cap it off with my senior recital trainings. This journey has been a unique experience that has aided my preparation to enter the world of professional voice performance. |
