Learning Italian Opera
Italian opera is both the art of opera in Italy and opera in the Italian language. The opera was originally conceived for the activity and recreation of the wealthy aristocrats. Many operas were originally written and performed for royalty and originally seen by few. But their popularity soon grew. Learning Italian opera gives a glimpse of the Italian culture, may it be medieval times or contemporary themes.
Opera was born in Italy at around 1600 and opera continued to play a dominant role in the history until today. Many operas were written by Handel, Gluck, and Mozart. Italian composes such as Rossini, Bellini, Donizetti, Verdi and Puccini written works that are amongst the most famous opera nowadays.
Giacomo Puccini written the greatest Italian opera like Manon Lescaut, La bohème, Tosca, and Madama Butterfly. Turandot and La rondine were both left unfinished. In 2002 Luciano Berio attempted a completion of Turandot. In 1994, another composer, Lorenzo Ferrero completed the La rondine.
Many Italian opera houses built during the Middle Ages until the Enlightenment still exist today, and most of them still hold performances. The Italian opera season begins late in October and some seats have been purchased years ahead of time. Here are several opera houses that tourists, opera fans may visit:
1. Teatro La Fenice in Venice, is one of the most famous theaters in Europe. La Fenice first opened in 1792 but was twice badly damaged by fire, it was renovated and reopened.
2. Teatro Alla Scala is Milan's famous opera house. It reopened in 2004 after an intensive renovation. The original opera house was designed by Giuseppe Piermarini and opened in 1778La Scala was badly bombed during World War II but reopened in 1946. it became one of the top opera houses, unfortunately one thing is missing. Andrei Bocceli has not yet performed on this opera house due to stage fright.
3. Teatro San Carlo is the oldest opera house in Italy established in 1737. It can be found in Naples. Opera, ballet, and short comic opera are still performed here.
4. Teatro Massimo in Palermo is the foremost opera house in Sicily as well as one of the finest in Europe. Year-round performances include opera, ballet, and music.
5. Teatro Comunale di Bologna is one of the top theaters in Italy. It is a stunning example of 18th century baroque architecture.
6. Teatro Verdi in Pisa is one of the most beautiful theaters in central Italy.
7. Teatro Regio di Parma is built in 1829. Parma holds opera, dance, and drama performances as well as concerts and special events.
8. Teatro Regio Torino isTurin's prominent opera house, in Piazza Castello, was rebuilt in 1973. The original 19th century theater was destroyed by fire in 1936.
9. Teatro dell'opera di Roma held opera and dance performances in the summer in the ancient Baths of Caracalla. This provides a spectacular view of the stars.
10. Arena di Verona’s opera season starts in June but there are other performances during the year.
Italian opera had played a significant role in the creation of opera. Without Italy’s influence, opera would be completely difference is music, style and performance. Opera has been formed from the beginning by Italy’s characteristics and has continued to influence music until today.
Learning Italian opera opens different windows of musical possibilities. Listening is never enough.
Mittwoch, 13. Mai 2009
Mittwoch, 22. April 2009
Speak Italian - The How and Why
Learn to Speak Italian - The How and Why
There are a lot of reasons why people want to learn a new language. If you want to learn to speak Italian, then may be you fell in love with the place and decided to stay for a while longer or maybe you fell in love with an Italian. There might be a work opportunity waiting for you in Italy and you can’t say no. Your family history may be pointing towards Sicily and you wanted to retrace the steps.
You may be a musician and you just want to make sense out of so many terms like allegro, adagio, or andante. Those are some of the reasons why a person decides to embark in a new learning adventure.
Aside from those here are a few more excuses on why you should really be motivated to learn Italian, the romance language that has 89% similarity to French, and about 82% similarity to Spanish.
• So you can understand what the famous tenors are saying whenever they are hitting the notes in high C.
• So you can make a reservation in that posh, authentic Italian restaurant and confidently order by speaking Italian.
• Expand your knowledge of various cultures and world languages.
• Turn off the subtitles when watching foreign films in Italian.
• Visit Rome and talk to the locals, or ask for directions in Italian.
• Make a conversation with your grandparents who were born in Italy.
• Step into an Armani shop and shop for your right size without making any guesses.
• Study art history.
• Read Dante’s La Divina Commedia in its original language.
Now that you have the motivation to start learning Italian, you will have to tuck in a lot of dedication and patience because learning a new language is never easy. Some language schools will say they can teach you in days and you will be fluent, but those are just promises. You have to extend a lot of efforts on this project. Here are some ways to learn how to speak Italian:
1. Listen carefully to how Italians speak so you could hear how the language really sounds. Watch Italian movies with the subtitles off so you can fully concentrate on the dialogues. It doesn’t matter if you won’t be able to make out the story line as log as you get to learn the rhythm of the language delivered verbally. This is something you have to do as reinforcement to your class or tutorial sessions.
2. Purchase good Italian-English dictionary and phrasebook. These will come in handy so you have a guide on the pronunciations and vocabulary. The useful conversation statements or phrases can help you out since these can’t be found in the dictionary. Always keep this close to you for reference.
3. As you go through your learning sessions, write the lessons down so that the notes will be retained in your memory. You can begin a new journal where you will write in Italian. You can also jot down your favorite lines in any Italian movie that you have watched. Writing is a great tool to reinforce the new words into your memory.
4. Practice makes perfect so do not stop attempting to speak in Italian. Do not be conscious if you’re too slow in finishing your sentences. You will speak it faster in time. If you want to learn to speak Italian, it will also be best to go to Italy for an extended period of time so you can converse with the people who are fluent.
There are a lot of reasons why people want to learn a new language. If you want to learn to speak Italian, then may be you fell in love with the place and decided to stay for a while longer or maybe you fell in love with an Italian. There might be a work opportunity waiting for you in Italy and you can’t say no. Your family history may be pointing towards Sicily and you wanted to retrace the steps.
You may be a musician and you just want to make sense out of so many terms like allegro, adagio, or andante. Those are some of the reasons why a person decides to embark in a new learning adventure.
Aside from those here are a few more excuses on why you should really be motivated to learn Italian, the romance language that has 89% similarity to French, and about 82% similarity to Spanish.
• So you can understand what the famous tenors are saying whenever they are hitting the notes in high C.
• So you can make a reservation in that posh, authentic Italian restaurant and confidently order by speaking Italian.
• Expand your knowledge of various cultures and world languages.
• Turn off the subtitles when watching foreign films in Italian.
• Visit Rome and talk to the locals, or ask for directions in Italian.
• Make a conversation with your grandparents who were born in Italy.
• Step into an Armani shop and shop for your right size without making any guesses.
• Study art history.
• Read Dante’s La Divina Commedia in its original language.
Now that you have the motivation to start learning Italian, you will have to tuck in a lot of dedication and patience because learning a new language is never easy. Some language schools will say they can teach you in days and you will be fluent, but those are just promises. You have to extend a lot of efforts on this project. Here are some ways to learn how to speak Italian:
1. Listen carefully to how Italians speak so you could hear how the language really sounds. Watch Italian movies with the subtitles off so you can fully concentrate on the dialogues. It doesn’t matter if you won’t be able to make out the story line as log as you get to learn the rhythm of the language delivered verbally. This is something you have to do as reinforcement to your class or tutorial sessions.
2. Purchase good Italian-English dictionary and phrasebook. These will come in handy so you have a guide on the pronunciations and vocabulary. The useful conversation statements or phrases can help you out since these can’t be found in the dictionary. Always keep this close to you for reference.
3. As you go through your learning sessions, write the lessons down so that the notes will be retained in your memory. You can begin a new journal where you will write in Italian. You can also jot down your favorite lines in any Italian movie that you have watched. Writing is a great tool to reinforce the new words into your memory.
4. Practice makes perfect so do not stop attempting to speak in Italian. Do not be conscious if you’re too slow in finishing your sentences. You will speak it faster in time. If you want to learn to speak Italian, it will also be best to go to Italy for an extended period of time so you can converse with the people who are fluent.
How to Speak Italian for Your Italian Getaway
Learn How to Speak Italian for Your Italian Getaway
For your trip to gorgeous Italy, it helps if you can speak the language as you go around the beautiful streets and take in the sights of this marvelous country. Italy’s official language is Italian but there are many other local dialects from the different regions of the country. Any local will be able to distinguish between a Pisan and a Roman just by their accent. But all citizens of the country can speak Italian which is why it’s convenient for tourists to learn how to speak Italian even if it means just learning a few phrases.
Learning the Language
Italy is a tourist hotspot and tourism is a major industry of the country. Italians are used to tourists and they welcome them with open arms. Any traveler will find it quite easy to navigate through the major cities of Italy as most of the people can speak a few and basic English phrases but if your trip to Italy takes you to the smaller cities and regions, not many know how to speak English, which is why learning a few phrases can be handy. Plus, learning the language is also a great way to get into the Italian culture and get the full blown Italian experience.
Even more so is the fact that learning just a few phrases can get you plus points with the natives who will appreciate your gesture and you effort. By learning a few Italian phrases, you’re trying to connect with the locals and look very much like an educated tourist.
Talking the Language
When it comes to speaking Italian, pronunciation is very important to be easily understood and any amount of effort to do so will be greatly appreciated by the locals.
Easily enough, Italian pronunciation is simple. All that is required is to speak each consonant and vowel clearly. Italians tend to talk fast but with a light tongue. And like learning any language, practice make perfect. Remember, it’s the effort that counts so it’s alright to make mistakes.
Here are a few basic phrases that you can use as you go around Italy:
• Arrivederci- Goodbye
• Bene- Well or good
• Buon giorno! - Good day
• Buona sera! - Good afternoon or evening
• Sto bene - I am well
• Dov'è...? - Where is...
• Per favore - Please
• Grazie! - Thanks!
• Male - Bad
• Mi scusi - Excuse me
• No - No
• Si – Yes
• Prego - You're welcome
• Quanto e' - How much is...
Almost Like English
As you learn how to speak Italian or at least learn some basic Italian phrases, you will come to realize that it does sound almost like English. Just like Italian, English is a Germanic language and because of this there are many words that are shared between the English and the Italian languages. Although some words are pronounced the same in both languages there are those that are pronounced differently.
As you listen and read through the Italian language, it’s always important to learn and be observant of how every word is pronounced. You will notice as you listen in to conversations in Italian that most of these words you already know about.
For your trip to gorgeous Italy, it helps if you can speak the language as you go around the beautiful streets and take in the sights of this marvelous country. Italy’s official language is Italian but there are many other local dialects from the different regions of the country. Any local will be able to distinguish between a Pisan and a Roman just by their accent. But all citizens of the country can speak Italian which is why it’s convenient for tourists to learn how to speak Italian even if it means just learning a few phrases.
Learning the Language
Italy is a tourist hotspot and tourism is a major industry of the country. Italians are used to tourists and they welcome them with open arms. Any traveler will find it quite easy to navigate through the major cities of Italy as most of the people can speak a few and basic English phrases but if your trip to Italy takes you to the smaller cities and regions, not many know how to speak English, which is why learning a few phrases can be handy. Plus, learning the language is also a great way to get into the Italian culture and get the full blown Italian experience.
Even more so is the fact that learning just a few phrases can get you plus points with the natives who will appreciate your gesture and you effort. By learning a few Italian phrases, you’re trying to connect with the locals and look very much like an educated tourist.
Talking the Language
When it comes to speaking Italian, pronunciation is very important to be easily understood and any amount of effort to do so will be greatly appreciated by the locals.
Easily enough, Italian pronunciation is simple. All that is required is to speak each consonant and vowel clearly. Italians tend to talk fast but with a light tongue. And like learning any language, practice make perfect. Remember, it’s the effort that counts so it’s alright to make mistakes.
Here are a few basic phrases that you can use as you go around Italy:
• Arrivederci- Goodbye
• Bene- Well or good
• Buon giorno! - Good day
• Buona sera! - Good afternoon or evening
• Sto bene - I am well
• Dov'è...? - Where is...
• Per favore - Please
• Grazie! - Thanks!
• Male - Bad
• Mi scusi - Excuse me
• No - No
• Si – Yes
• Prego - You're welcome
• Quanto e' - How much is...
Almost Like English
As you learn how to speak Italian or at least learn some basic Italian phrases, you will come to realize that it does sound almost like English. Just like Italian, English is a Germanic language and because of this there are many words that are shared between the English and the Italian languages. Although some words are pronounced the same in both languages there are those that are pronounced differently.
As you listen and read through the Italian language, it’s always important to learn and be observant of how every word is pronounced. You will notice as you listen in to conversations in Italian that most of these words you already know about.
The Best Software to Learn Italian
How to Choose the Best Software to Learn Italian
Learning a new language has also reached the digital age. These days you can buy it and then learn Italian on our own time and pace. Since there are so many of them around, you should consider what to look for when you are out shopping for one.
The first thing you have to consider is your learning style. Do you need a program that has various exercises you can try out or do you want one that simply tells what is the meaning of the word in English and vice versa? Do you learn better reading the words or hearing them?
There is not one program out there that can make you speak Italian. For this to happen, you will have to get more one program because it is not enough to understand what someone is saying but most importantly, how you are able to express yourself to whoever it is you are talking to.
The only way you will know what software is available is for you to go to the local book store and looking for similar products online. You can also inquire or purchase a CD from a language learning center.
Keep in mind that language software have different levels from beginner, intermediate to advanced. If you have studied Italian in the past and simply want to freshen up, maybe you can skip the 1st level and then purchase either the intermediate or advanced.
Once you have found it, narrow your choices down to at least 5 then find out which one is really worth getting.
You can do that by reading the reviews that were written about it. You can also ask other users what they think about the program to find out if it is really good value for their money. If possible, try and test it yourself so you are not influenced by what people say but rather through your personal experience.
This will be easy for you to do since most of the software have a test or “lite” version which you can download for free. If there is no free trial available, see if you can borrow it from someone and test it at home. It is only when you learn something that you should consider buying the program.
Don’t forget to also check who made the program. It is best to only buy an Italian learning language software that is made by a recognized institution so you don’t waste your time and money using it. A few examples are Rosetta’s Stone, Berlitz International, Tell Me More, Talk Now and Magnum Language.
The truth is every language software available in the market has its strengths and weaknesses. List them down and then see which one you think can really teach you Italian.
If you still can’t decide which language software to get, try asking a friend or your former university professor for some help.
A lot of people say that it is easy to learn Italian but you shouldn’t take their word for it and instead find out if this is true.
Aside from language software, there are audio books, language courses and other training materials available so don’t rely on just one to learn Italian. As much as possible try them all because these will all help you speak and understand the language.
Learning a new language has also reached the digital age. These days you can buy it and then learn Italian on our own time and pace. Since there are so many of them around, you should consider what to look for when you are out shopping for one.
The first thing you have to consider is your learning style. Do you need a program that has various exercises you can try out or do you want one that simply tells what is the meaning of the word in English and vice versa? Do you learn better reading the words or hearing them?
There is not one program out there that can make you speak Italian. For this to happen, you will have to get more one program because it is not enough to understand what someone is saying but most importantly, how you are able to express yourself to whoever it is you are talking to.
The only way you will know what software is available is for you to go to the local book store and looking for similar products online. You can also inquire or purchase a CD from a language learning center.
Keep in mind that language software have different levels from beginner, intermediate to advanced. If you have studied Italian in the past and simply want to freshen up, maybe you can skip the 1st level and then purchase either the intermediate or advanced.
Once you have found it, narrow your choices down to at least 5 then find out which one is really worth getting.
You can do that by reading the reviews that were written about it. You can also ask other users what they think about the program to find out if it is really good value for their money. If possible, try and test it yourself so you are not influenced by what people say but rather through your personal experience.
This will be easy for you to do since most of the software have a test or “lite” version which you can download for free. If there is no free trial available, see if you can borrow it from someone and test it at home. It is only when you learn something that you should consider buying the program.
Don’t forget to also check who made the program. It is best to only buy an Italian learning language software that is made by a recognized institution so you don’t waste your time and money using it. A few examples are Rosetta’s Stone, Berlitz International, Tell Me More, Talk Now and Magnum Language.
The truth is every language software available in the market has its strengths and weaknesses. List them down and then see which one you think can really teach you Italian.
If you still can’t decide which language software to get, try asking a friend or your former university professor for some help.
A lot of people say that it is easy to learn Italian but you shouldn’t take their word for it and instead find out if this is true.
Aside from language software, there are audio books, language courses and other training materials available so don’t rely on just one to learn Italian. As much as possible try them all because these will all help you speak and understand the language.
Great Reasons Why You Should Learn Italian
8 Great Reasons Why You Should Learn Italian
Why learn Italian? That is a very a good question and a good reply will be to say “why not?” After all, it is beautiful language that is used not only in Italy but in different parts of Europe as well.
1. But the best reason will probably be for you to be able to interact with the locals if ever they don’t understand English. This will make it easy for you to find your way if you get lost, buy tickets, find the bus stop or read important notices that are posted.
2. The next reason believe it or not is all about politeness. You are a guest in their country and instead of them adjusting you should be the one to make the adjustments because they will surely do the same when they visit the US.
What this does is make the locals appreciate who you are even if you do not the pronunciation right. The important thing is you made an effort.
Some of the basic phrases you need to know include how to say good day, good afternoon or evening, goodbye, please, thank you, do you speak English, I don’t speak Italian, where is the bathroom and how much is this.
If you know that, the locals will be more than able to assist you despite your limited knowledge of their language.
But if you would like to strike a conversation with them, you have to learn other words and phrases. You can start out by buying a dictionary, listening to audio tapes and enrolling in a class. If you have a friend that can speak Italian, the better so he or she can correct any mistakes that you have made.
You can also check online for other learning resources. Be aware that while some ask you to pay a certain fee, others are willing to teach you for free.
3. Another good reason why you should learn Italian is to improve your employment potential. If you apply for a job and it requires someone who speaks Italian fluently, your name will be in the final list of candidates for that position.
4. For those who want to pursue higher education, it is also beneficial since some schools require you to speak at least a foreign language.
5. Learning Italian will let you appreciate more plays, books and other works that were written by Italian writers. Yes you may have read the English translation but it is nothing compared to reading or hearing it in the original version.
6. If ever you plan to work or decide to settle in Italy or somewhere in Europe, it will be easy for you to blend in with the people.
7. Learning Italian or any other language makes you understand their culture and who you are. This in essence will give you a better view of the world which helps shape your identity and makes you appreciate what you have.
8. Lastly, so that you will be able to make life long friends even if they happen to live across the Atlantic.
So why learn Italian? So you will be able to speak another language apart from English and have a greater understanding of other people and yourself. Something you will find useful when applying for work, going back to school or simply while you are on vacation.
Why learn Italian? That is a very a good question and a good reply will be to say “why not?” After all, it is beautiful language that is used not only in Italy but in different parts of Europe as well.
1. But the best reason will probably be for you to be able to interact with the locals if ever they don’t understand English. This will make it easy for you to find your way if you get lost, buy tickets, find the bus stop or read important notices that are posted.
2. The next reason believe it or not is all about politeness. You are a guest in their country and instead of them adjusting you should be the one to make the adjustments because they will surely do the same when they visit the US.
What this does is make the locals appreciate who you are even if you do not the pronunciation right. The important thing is you made an effort.
Some of the basic phrases you need to know include how to say good day, good afternoon or evening, goodbye, please, thank you, do you speak English, I don’t speak Italian, where is the bathroom and how much is this.
If you know that, the locals will be more than able to assist you despite your limited knowledge of their language.
But if you would like to strike a conversation with them, you have to learn other words and phrases. You can start out by buying a dictionary, listening to audio tapes and enrolling in a class. If you have a friend that can speak Italian, the better so he or she can correct any mistakes that you have made.
You can also check online for other learning resources. Be aware that while some ask you to pay a certain fee, others are willing to teach you for free.
3. Another good reason why you should learn Italian is to improve your employment potential. If you apply for a job and it requires someone who speaks Italian fluently, your name will be in the final list of candidates for that position.
4. For those who want to pursue higher education, it is also beneficial since some schools require you to speak at least a foreign language.
5. Learning Italian will let you appreciate more plays, books and other works that were written by Italian writers. Yes you may have read the English translation but it is nothing compared to reading or hearing it in the original version.
6. If ever you plan to work or decide to settle in Italy or somewhere in Europe, it will be easy for you to blend in with the people.
7. Learning Italian or any other language makes you understand their culture and who you are. This in essence will give you a better view of the world which helps shape your identity and makes you appreciate what you have.
8. Lastly, so that you will be able to make life long friends even if they happen to live across the Atlantic.
So why learn Italian? So you will be able to speak another language apart from English and have a greater understanding of other people and yourself. Something you will find useful when applying for work, going back to school or simply while you are on vacation.
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