Learning and Engagement Programs
Learning and Engagement Programs
Pre-Opera Talks
Beat the traffic and get the most out of each performance at a entertaining, enlightening, and free 25-minute pre-opera presentation by Michael Gerdes, SDSU’s Director of Orchestras and Music Director of Opera Theater. The talks are held 50-minutes prior to each opera inside the auditorium. It’s a great way to learn about the opera and note what to listen for!
6:40 pm before evening performances; 1:10 pm for Sunday matinees.
Post-Opera Talk-Back
Immediately following the Saturday and Sunday performances at the Civic Theatre, audience members are welcome to join us in the Dress Circle section for an informative and lively Q&A with San Diego Opera staff and cast members.
Words & Music: From Service to Song
Words & Music: From Service to Song is a free 2-8 week creative drop in program where your story becomes a song, and your voice takes center stage. For veterans and active-duty members and their families (ages 12 and up). Each week, you’ll attend hands-on workshops led by San Diego Opera Teaching Artists and create your own song from start-to-finish. It all culminates in a performance for the community, family, and friends.
- No prior musical experience required, just your voice, your story, and a desire to have fun
- An outlet for healing, growth, and joy
- A chance to connect with others who understand military life
Wednesday evenings from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Drop In Dates:
November 5, 12 and 19, 2025
December 3, 10, and 17*, 2025
January 7, 2026
Performance: January 14, 2026
*Wednesday December 17, 5:30 to 8pm Blue Star Families is excited to partner with Resounding Joy and the San Diego Opera for “Words & Music: From Service to Song.”
This free, creative drop-in program invites veterans, active-duty service members, and their families to turn personal stories into powerful songs.
Join us for hands-on workshops featuring a drumming circle led by Resounding Joy and San Diego Opera Teaching Artists. will assist you in creating your own song from start to finish, no musical experience needed.
Why join?
- Transform your story into music
- Experience an outlet for healing, growth, and joy
- Connect with others who understand military life
- Have fun, express yourself, and let your voice take center stage
Bring your voice, your story, and your creativity. We can’t wait to see what you create.
Location:
Resounding Joy Music Wellness Center
11300 Sorrento Valley Rd, Ste 104
San Diego, CA 92121
For information please contact: Bernardo Bermudez at bernardo.bermudez@sdopera.org or by phone at 619-533-7024.
Opera Music Explained
Opera Music Explained is a video series that takes you inside the music of each opera in our season. Featuring engaging commentary from pianist and educator Dr. Daniel Beliavsky, each episode offers a deeper understanding of the operas you love or are about to discover.
Watch and hear past videos:
Pagliacci:
La traviata:
Salome – the opening scene:
Salome – the final climactic scene:
Opera Broadcasts on KPBS Radio
Each summer, an audio recording of each of our season’s operas are played at 8:00 pm on KPBS radio 89.5 FM (97.7 FM Calexico). Watch this space in Summer 2026 for air dates.
Corporate Sponsors
