Discover Opera

New to opera or need a refresher? Start here.

 

A Brief History of Opera
Born in Italy more than 400 years ago during the Renaissance, opera—a combination of vocal and orchestral music, drama, visual arts and dance—has been inspiring people for ages.

The 10 Best Operas of All Time
Choosing the ten best operas of all time is difficult but not impossible—at least not for a few San Francisco Opera experts

From Aria to Vibrato: A Glossary of Opera Terms
Find the definitions you’re seeking (and a little more) with this glossary of essential operatic terms.

A Short Guide to Opera Voices
Here is our short guide for a quick refresher on the basics of each opera voice type.

Five Badass Heroines Who Will Change the Way You Look at Opera
Check out five of our favorite opera heroines who will change the way you think of opera.

People at the Opera
Learn more about the different roles from on stage, in the pit, or behind the scenes.

What to Expect
Here is what you can expect when you come to the opera.

A Timeline of Opera History
Take a quick journey through the long and fascinating history of opera with this timeline of defining moments.

An Overview of German Opera
Let’s take a journey through time and learn all about the history of German opera!

An Overview of Italian Opera
Explore the history of Italian opera and some of the events that define the genre.

Broadway and Opera
Let's take a closer look at three of Broadway's biggest shows and how they connect to opera.

5 Things to Know about Opera
We crush some long-standing opera stereotypes with this top 5 list.

People at the Opera
Who does what onstage, in the pit and behind the scenes.

Books and Recordings We Love
Whether you're new to opera or a longtime fan, you'll enjoy these collections.

Who Does What
It takes hundreds of talented individuals—working both onstage and behind the scenes—to bring an opera to life.