1. Musical Numbers: Arias, duets, ensembles, and choruses allow characters to express their thoughts, emotions, and motivations through singing. These musical numbers advance the plot and develop character arcs.
2. Storytelling and Narrative: Music helps in storytelling and plot progression. It provides context and historical information, setting the scene and conveying events.
3. Emotional Impact: Music amplifies the emotional impact of scenes and characters. It reinforces the feelings and reactions of the audience, often underscoring moments of joy, sorrow, tension, or climactic resolution.
4. Characterization: Music helps in shaping and defining characters. Specific melodies, harmonies, and musical styles can be associated with particular characters or their emotional states.
5. Atmosphere and Ambiance: Music sets the mood and ambiance of an opera. It creates the appropriate atmosphere for different settings and scenes.
6. Enhancement of Dramatic Moments: Orchestral interludes and background music enhance significant moments in the opera. They can build suspense, create tension, or provide emotional punctuation to key scenes.
7. Unity and Continuity: Music unifies various elements of an opera and ensures that the production flows smoothly. It transitions seamlessly between scenes and sustains dramatic momentum.
8. Interaction with Libretto: Music complements and enhances the libretto (lyrics). The interplay between music and lyrics creates a powerful impact on the audience, conveying meanings and emotions that deepen the opera experience.
9. Musical Symbolism: Composers often use musical motifs and themes to represent specific characters, emotions, or situations, adding depth and symbolism to the opera.
10. Audience Engagement: The combination of music, singing, drama, and visual elements in an opera engages the audience on multiple levels, creating an immersive and captivating artistic experience.