Opera Ensemble Orchestra
Bringing Verdi’s Falstaff to Life

Directed by Steve Dummer

About the course

Join Steve Dummer for a week of orchestral music-making, exploring the wit, energy and theatrical brilliance of Verdi’s Falstaff. Working with selections from this much-loved comic opera, specially arranged by Steve for the Opera Ensemble Orchestra, participants will experience the excitement of accompanying singers and helping to bring an operatic performance to life. The course offers an enjoyable opportunity to develop ensemble skills, explore the relationship between orchestra and voices, and contribute to one of the highlights of the Summer School’s final evening.

Who is it for?

This course welcomes orchestral instrumentalists who enjoy ensemble playing and would like to experience the particular pleasures of performing opera. Participants should be comfortable reading music and following a conductor, with some previous orchestral or ensemble experience. The arrangements will be tailored to the instrumental forces available, allowing players to contribute to a shared musical and theatrical project.

What to expect

Throughout the week, Steve will rehearse selected scenes and musical passages from Falstaff, focusing on ensemble precision, rhythm, phrasing, musical character and the art of accompanying singers. Rehearsals will prepare the orchestra to work alongside the Opera Ensemble, responding to the dramatic action and supporting the vocal performances. The week will culminate in a performance with the Opera Ensemble on Friday evening, 13 August 2027, providing a fitting operatic finale to the Summer School.

Practical information