First the words, then the music: An Introduction to Libretto

The Writing Squad

A comprehensive introduction to writing text for opera, art song and other classical forms in which text is sung.

Principal York

OPEN TO ALL SQUADS, YORK - VENUE TBCThis session will explore the relationship between text and music, and the numerous ways the two can interrelate in opera, art song and other classical forms (eg choral music). We will take a look at the different ways a collaborative relationship between a writer and a composer can work, and the different permutations that the resulting pairing of text and music can take. We’ll also delve into what it means to “leave space in the music” in the text, and the ways in which a writer can set up a strong foundation for the music to build upon. LAURA ATTRIDGELaura is a freelance writer and director working primarily in opera and classical music. Laura’s passion for the relationship between words and music has led to many fruitful collaborations with composers. Her latest song, Kind Regards, written with composer Lillie Harris, was premiered by the Royal Opera House in March 2021, and she is currently working with composer Kate Whitley on a new oratorio for Buxton International Festival exploring the pressing issue of climate change. As a poet, she has had work published in prestigious magazines and zines such as The Rialto and Mslexia, and is featured in the anthology Introduction X: The Poetry Business Book of New Poets. Her song cycles have been premiered at Glyndebourne, the Royal College of Music, the National Gallery and Bard College (New York). Her ongoing creative partnership with composer Lewis Murphy - as duo Murphy &amp; Attridge - has thus far produced numerous works for the stage:  A Different Story (2019, Royal Opera House); Then to the elements (2018, Scottish Opera); Belongings (2017, Glyndebourne); First Date (2017, Sound Festival); Damsel/Wife/Witch (2015, And So Forth); and Now (2014, RCM and Tête-à-Tête Festival). Their latest commissions are a new one-act opera for Leeds Youth Opera to celebrate the company’s 50th anniversary, and an educational opera English Touring Opera for Key Stage 2 children, both premiering in 2022. You can find out more on her website: www.lauraattridge.com

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First the words, then the music: An Introduction to Libretto

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First the words, then the music: An Introduction to Libretto

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