Definition of grand opera

The term "grand opera" can be traced back to the mid-19th century when opera houses in Paris began to produce elaborate productions that combined singing, dancing, and acting with large-scale spectacle and orchestration. The aim was to create a new and sophisticated form of opera that would distinguish itself from the smaller, more intimate operas of the past. The term "grand opera" was coined to describe these productions that featured large choral ensembles, elaborate costumes, and sets that demanded abundant resources. The most famous exponent of this style was Gilbert Bizet, whose opera "Carmen" is often seen as the quintessential example of grand opera. Other notable composers in this genre include Richard Wagner, Giuseppe Verdi, and Georges Bizet, all of whom sought to create operas that would challenge the conventions of traditional opera and immerse the audience in a world of rich spectacle and emotional drama. In summary, the term "grand opera" refers to a style of opera that emerged in the mid-19th century in Paris and characterized by its grandeur, lavish production values, and large-scale musical and theatrical spectacle. It became a symbol of the new cultural and artistic movements that were emerging during this time, including romanticism and realism, and continues to be an important part of the operatic canon today.