The term commonly refers to an opera that employs epic themes and exhibits them through the use of a large orchestra and chorus. An example of grand opera is Verdi's Aida, with its large processional scene in which hundreds of singers, dancers, and animals share the stage.
The term normally given to the genre that flourished in Paris from the early 1820s and which remained influential beyond the frontiers of France throughout the 19th century and even into the 20th century. Grand Opera is entirely sung from start to finish, as opposed to opera that may have spoken dialogue. It is often epic in scale and, in the case of 19th century French opera, may have a full-scale ballet inserted in the middle of the work. Grand Opera frequently deals with serious, dramatic subjects. La bohème, Tosca, Turandot, and Aida are all considered grand opera.
opera in which all the text is sung
Opera on a large scale, usually entirely sung, in contrast to comic opera.
Style of Romantic opera developed in Paris, focusing on serious, historical plots with huge choruses, crowd scenes, elaborate dance episodes, ornate costumes and spectacular scenery.
Opera that is sung start to finish, without any spoken dialogue. May be epic in scale and deal with weighty matters.
Strictly speaking, means opera without spoken dialogue. It is usually used to refer to opera which uses a large orchestra and chorus and grand themes.
Opera which is sung from start to finish, as opposed to opera which may have spoken dialogue.
Term for opera of early to mid-19th century that emphasized pomp and elaborate stage devices. Paris was the heart of Grand Opera style.
A style of opera, popular in the nineteenth century (particularly in France), famous for its pomp and pageantry. It often features elaborate costumes, sets, ballet, and other stage spectacle, as well as large casts.
Opera that is sung from start to finish, as opposed to opera that may have spoken dialogue; grand opera frequently treats serious, dramatic subjects and, in French opera of the 19th century, was generally epic in scale with a full-scale ballet inserted in the middle of the work.
Grand Opera is a style of opera characterized by grandiose scale. Heroic and historical subjects, large casts, vast orchestras, richly detailed sets, sumptuous costumes and spectacular scenic effects were all features of this genre, especially when the operas were first produced. However, some recent revivals have unfortunately featured excessive short cuts in an effort to minimize costs.