Celebrate Verdi's 200th birthday in 2013 by getting more familiar with the genius of his music, and exploring the beauty of Italian opera. San Francisco Opera Director of Music Administration Clifford "Kip" Cranna will guide you through Verdi's career, taking a close look at the important operas from each period in his life. Using video examples, the course will emphasize listening skills, while offering practical insights into production problems in performing and staging Verdi's operas. No previous opera study or experience necessary. Class 1 - February 4 - the early years (1830-40s) Oberto, Nabucco, Macbeth Class 2 - February 11 - the middle years (1850s) Simon Boccanegra, La Traviata, Rigoletto Class 3 - February 18 - mature works (1860s) La Forza del Destino, Aida, Don Carlos Class 4 - February 25 - final masterpieces Otello, Falstaff