Operapaedia

This project is concerned with identifying and investigating a problem faced by students undertaking studies in opera, namely, readily available performance related materials for students of opera to consult when preparing for a performance. The purpose of this project is to develop an internet-based resource containing a range of information about operas, musical scores and their interpretation, opera recordings, opera literature, opera composers, opera performers, and opera companies as a solution to this problem. The Project uses aspects of opera interpretation and opera libretti as a theoretical framework.

In order to accomplish these outcomes, this project demonstrates that no single source of information that is presently available in print or electronic form is comprehensive, reliable and convenient enough to provide opera students with information necessary for use in a production. The Project highlights the need for an electronic resource that is comprehensive for opera students.

The analysis of the usability of website research literature indicates that successful electronic resources embody the principles of: "24/7", 'anywhere', 'anytime' access; ease-of-access, user-friendly website design; and resources relevant to the specific enquiry of the user in their design.

The Project leads to the conclusion that no single source of information is comprehensive enough for an opera student to acquire, process and assimilate all of the information necessary for use in a production.

The overarching product of the project is a design and guidelines for the development of an internet-based resource aimed at eliminating the lack of performance related materials in the field of opera study. I call this resource Operapaedia.